It's an exciting era for James Bond fans, even if the franchise has had its ups and downs recently. The iconic spy made a triumphant return this year with the release of 007 First Light, a video game from IO Interactive, the studio known for the Hitman series. Patrick Gibson, who plays the young Bond in the game, impressed players so much that fans are clamoring for Amazon to cast him as the next 007 in the upcoming film. However, reports suggest the studio has other plans, with Denis Villeneuve (Dune, Blade Runner 2049) set to direct and Steven Knight (Peaky Blinders) penning the script. The shortlist for the next Bond includes Jacob Elordi, Paul Mescal, Harris Dickinson, and Jack Lowden.
While the franchise has produced many beloved entries, not every installment has been universally praised. One such polarizing film is No Time to Die, Daniel Craig's final outing as 007, which hit theaters in 2021. Craig redefined the character across five movies, leaving an indelible mark on the role. Although some fans were initially divided over the film's ending, many have since warmed to it. The movie's enduring popularity is evident in its streaming performance: it has remained in Prime Video's top 10 for over 250 days.
This remarkable longevity on streaming is a testament to Craig's legacy and the film's emotional resonance. No Time to Die offers a fitting conclusion to Craig's arc, blending high-octane action with a deeply personal story. It's no surprise that viewers keep returning to it, whether to relive the excitement or to appreciate the nuances they might have missed the first time.
For those who haven't seen it yet, No Time to Die is currently available on Prime Video. If you're in the mood for more spy thrillers, you might also check out Matt Damon's Bourne movies, which are also dominating streaming charts this month.
What's Next for James Bond?
Amazon hasn't announced a release date for the next Bond film, but there are hints about when it might arrive. Villeneuve has confirmed he'll start work on the project once Dune: Part Three is released on December 18. That doesn't mean production will begin this year, but it could start in 2027, potentially leading to a 2028 release.
In the meantime, fans can dive into other Bond-related content. For instance, Grant Morrison's new Bond comic series offers a fresh take on the character. And if you're looking for more action-packed entertainment, Alan Ritchson's Runner is a great pick.
As the wait for the next Bond continues, No Time to Die remains a must-watch for any fan of the genre. Its streaming success is a clear sign that Craig's portrayal has left a lasting impact, and it will be interesting to see how the franchise evolves from here.
