Amazon MGM Studios’ acquisition of Bray Film Studios may signal changes for the James Bond franchise, potentially impacting its long-standing relationship with Pinewood Studios.
Amazon MGM Studios has purchased the historic Bray Film Studios, just 26 miles from central London. This acquisition raises questions about the future of the iconic 007 franchise, traditionally filmed at Pinewood Studios.
Bray Film Studios, located in Water Oakley, Berkshire, boasts a rich heritage. More recently it has hosted productions like The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, Rocketman, Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again, and the BBC’s Dracula. Notably, it was the birthplace of the Hammer Films era, producing horror classics such as The Curse of Frankenstein and Dracula.
Mike Hopkins, head of Prime Video and Amazon MGM Studios, emphasized the strategic importance of Bray in Amazon’s plan to deepen its roots in the UK’s creative community, saying:
With Bray as our creative home in the U.K., we are committed to deepening our relationships with the UK creative community, which is rich with world-class storytellers and creative talent of all kinds.
The acquisition includes extensive facilities, from soundstages to workshops, aiming to bolster local employment and skills training.
Amazon MGM Studios plans to produce both new and continuing TV series and feature films at Bray. The first production to be located at Bray following the acquisition will be the second season of the Russo Brothers’ spy series Citadel, starring Richard Madden and Priyanka Chopra Jonas, which is scheduled to begin filming in September.
A potential shift from Pinewood?
While Pinewood Studios has been synonymous with Bond since Dr No in 1962, the logistical challenges posed by Disney’s 10 year lease on the studio might necessitate a shift. With its rich cinematic history and state-of-the-art facilities, Bray offers a compelling alternative.
Bond films have occasionally ventured beyond Pinewood Studios. For instance, Moonraker (1979) featured extensive filming at the Éclair Studios in Paris. Similarly, Licence to Kill (1989) utilized Estudios Churubusco in Mexico City for key scenes. Goldeneye (1995) saw production at Leavesden Studios, which has since become famous as the home of the Harry Potter series. Additionally, Casino Royale (2006) made extensive use of Barrandov Studios in Prague.
Source: Hollywood Reporter
