MOVIE NEWS – The exit of Jennifer Salke from Amazon MGM Studios has been linked to multiple underwhelming projects, but sources suggest that her controversial approach to the James Bond franchise may have played a pivotal role. Reports claim that her misguided vision even delayed the finalization of Amazon’s creative control over the series.

Following Amazon’s acquisition of MGM Studios — and with it, the rights to James Bond — tensions quickly emerged between long-time Bond producer Barbara Broccoli and studio head Jennifer Salke. Broccoli was reportedly so unimpressed with Salke’s ideas for the franchise that she opted to deal with Salke’s superior instead, stating that she “did not feel inspired” by the direction proposed for 007.

According to Variety, this strained dynamic contributed to the franchise’s current limbo. Since Daniel Craig’s final appearance in 2021’s No Time to Die, there has been no movement on new Bond content. With such a lucrative property lying dormant, Amazon faced increasing pressure to act. While Salke’s tenure had its share of broader issues, her handling of Bond may have sealed her fate.

Sources allege that Salke proposed changes to make Bond less violent and more adaptable to television and gaming formats. Her strategy reportedly involved softening the character, which made Broccoli visibly uncomfortable. Critics noted that Salke’s concept ignored the enduring popularity of Bond video games like GoldenEye, Nightfire, and Everything or Nothing. Insiders claimed she envisioned a character more in line with a “network drama stereotype,” something neither Amazon nor fans were willing to accept.

Where Should the James Bond Series Go Next?

Predicting fan expectations is an increasingly difficult task. Radical reinventions often spark backlash, while repetitive formulas are criticized for lacking innovation. Despite being over 60 years old, the James Bond franchise has rarely been accused of playing it safe.

It remains unclear what tone the next Bond iteration will take. Daniel Craig’s portrayal was grittier and more grounded than the flamboyant style of Pierce Brosnan’s era, which leaned into puns and flirtation reminiscent of Roger Moore’s films. Craig’s Bond echoed the more serious tone of Timothy Dalton’s take in the late 1980s. Whether the pendulum will swing back toward a lighter approach is uncertain, but Amazon reportedly intends to expand the universe beyond films, with spin-offs exploring new directions.

Source: Variety