No Time To Die delays ‘could be a good thing’ for James Bond

The delays to James Bond film No Time To Die could actually be a good thing, an expert has suggested.

Bond fans have been desperate to see Daniel Craig’s final outing as the secret agent, but the 007 movie has faced a string of delays due to coronavirus, alongside a whole host of other obstacles.

However, Shawn Robbins, Chief Analyst at Boxoffice Pro, told Metro.co.uk: ‘I tend to view the numerous delays as a possible upside for the film, and perhaps the global theatrical landscape at-large, rather than a disadvantage.

‘This was already a highly anticipated film as not just a Bond movie but also Daniel Craig’s final performance in the role after a very popular, 15-year run. The film had been generating strong pre-release interest with trailer releases before its initial delay due to the pandemic last year, and it still draws attention with each release date change and marketing surge.

‘With moviegoers eager to get back out in the world after this health crisis subsides, we might see a boom in demand for the cinematic experience — particularly for iconic franchises such as James Bond. As the saying, absence makes the heart grow fonder.’

Could No Time To Die be released on streaming platforms?

Of course, it’s not just Bond that has been met with delay after delay.

Studios have had to either postpone their releases or come up with a solid alternative, which has led to the unprecedented move from Warner Bros to release its entire 2021 slate on HBO Max, as well as going ahead with theatrical releases.

While some have called for a similar decision to be made for Bond, Shawn has pointed out that this simply wouldn’t work.

‘There are many arguments to be made here, but I believe the bottom line is that a streaming release for No Time to Die could have several negative consequences – not just for cinemas, but for the movie’s studio partners, financial needs, and the image of the Bond property itself,’ he pointed out.

‘This is a brand that has endured the test of time and numerous economic challenges throughout its 59-year history. James Bond is a bastion of cinema, and an important symbol of pop culture that demands the unique theatrical and communal components with each film.

‘It’s a big deal when a new 007 film comes out, and streaming releases have yet to match the kind of event-ised nature commanded by and unique to theatrical blockbusters.’

How did non-coronavirus related events impact the movie’s delays?

The film’s obstacles actually started before coronavirus, with the departure of Danny Boyle as director, being replaced by Cary Joji Fukunaga.

Later on, Daniel suffered an injury to his ankle following an accident on set, which put him out of action for about two weeks.

Meanwhile, another incident saw a ‘controlled explosion’ happen on set, causing a minor injury to one crew member, and damage to the exterior of the Pinewood Studios sound stage.

‘I wouldn’t doubt that the handful of production setbacks shaped what it ultimately became from a creative standpoint,’ Shawn said.

‘Until the world sees it, though, I’m not sure we can speculate too deeply. At this point, the vast majority of moviegoers probably have very little (if any) memory of pre-pandemic circumstances surrounding the film’s life cycle.

‘It’s been a long road to release for No Time to Die, to be sure. The film’s impact and success will be wholly unique when the world is finally able to see it.’

No Time To Die is set for release on October 8.

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