A James Bond Universe?

Rumors are swirling: EON productions is exploring the idea of a James Bond “cinematic” universe, similar to Marvel’s. What form would this take? Might EON become creative partners with other Bond franchises, such as Ian Fleming Productions? We can only speculate.

Films

As Rolling Stone noted in 2015, soon after the release of Spectre, the seeds for such a cinematic universe were already planted. No other Bond film had acted as a sequel like Quantum of Solace had, and that trend continued in the way that Spectre picked up where Skyfall left off. Overall, all four of Daniel Craig’s Bond films were part of one story arc.

But such a focus on Bond can only go so far, in terms of creating a “universe.” That is where spin-offs come in, possibly in the form of Eve Moneypenny. With Skyfall, movie audiences were introduced to a new characterization of Moneypenny, one who is far more adept in the “field” than behind a desk, as she had been depicted in the past. It’s no wonder, then, that Dynamite Comics has created a spin-off series especially for her, aptly titled Moneypenny. Meanwhile, nobody could blame EON for seeing potential in Moneypenny, as a character, especially as played by Naomie Harris.

Comics

EON’s Bond universe doesn’t have to be limited to the multiplex. Dynamite’s venture into a Bond

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comic book series isn’t unprecedented. James Bond has been featured in comics before, though mostly as simple adaptations of the films. What is different, now, is the level of commitment. Dynamite is now looking to adapt Ian Fleming’s novels (as opposed to the films) and, as mentioned earlier, also has spin-offs in mind. While Moneypenny is in the works, Dynamite has already published its first Felix Leiter comic.

This emphasis on comics and graphic novels may be a sign that EON is interested in an expanded universe for Bond, along the lines of Marvel, which has a tight grip on various forms of entertainment. Perhaps EON sees an opportunity to expand its fanbase through Dynamite and may more closely align itself with the publisher’s efforts.

Young Adult Books and Television

A James Bond television series has never been produced. There may be a good reason for that, but if done well, especially with spin-offs, then EON can expand its universe as Marvel did with Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.

Furthermore, if EON is wanting to emulate Marvel, it might also look at expanding (or gaining better footing) in YA fiction. Both have existed before; so, again, there is nothing new here. Young Bond, a series of spy novels for teens, has been in publication since 2005. But EON had no hand in this endeavor and may look at exerting some creative control, if/where it can.

So…

All of this is speculation at this point. And the question of IF this can be done is far different than SHOULD it be done. We’ll leave the answers (and debate) to you.

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