S2E007 The Amazon era begins: meet Bond’s new producers
Javi Trujillo, Bill Koenig and David Leigh get together once again for a wide-ranging discussion on the new producers taking the helm of the James Bond franchise at Amazon MGM Studios. We explore who they are, what their backgrounds might reveal, and how their influence could shape the future of 007 on screen.Before we get into that, we talk about the Oscars tribute to Barbara Broccoli and Michael G Wilson and how it was hastily assembled to be ready just days after the news that they had agreed to give up creative control of 007 to Amazon MGM. We also reflect on the recent deaths of Bruce Glover—Mr Wint from Diamonds Are Forever—and legendary Bond poster artist Robert McGinnis. Plus, there’s a preview of Raymond Benson’s upcoming Felix Leiter novel and our thoughts on the new 4K Sean Connery Bond box set.Whether you’re a longtime Bond fan or just curious about what’s next for the series, there’s plenty to enjoy in this episode.Recorded on 11th April 2025 in the United States and Spain.You can find us at:Bill Koenighttps://hmssweblog.wordpress.com/Javi Trujillohttps://bsky.app/profile/javitru.bsky.social or https://www.instagram.com/thebondisnotenough/David Leighhttps://www.thejamesbonddossier.com/
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50:37
S2E006 Interview with Steven Jay Rubin, author of The James Bond Films: A Behind the Scenes History
In this episode, Bill Koenig and Javi Trujillo are joined by author and Bond historian Steven Jay Rubin for a revealing conversation centred on The James Bond Films: A Behind the Scenes History. Rubin shares how the book first came about and the incredible access he had in the late 1970s—including an unforgettable screening of an early cut of The Spy Who Loved Me alongside Ken Adam and Michael G. Wilson.Rubin opens up about interviewing Cubby Broccoli, the mistake of sharing transcripts with him, and the behind-the-curtain tensions that followed—and reveals why Michael G. Wilson stopped speaking to him.The discussion takes fascinating turns: how he was forced to use his creativity to source over 200 images for the book, the notorious Criterion Collection laserdisc commentaries and why they were banned, and talking vaudeville with Harry Saltzman. Rubin also reflects on his later work—including The James Bond Movie EncyclopediaLooking ahead, he offers candid thoughts on what Amazon should (and shouldn't) do with the franchise, why Bond must remain contemporary, and why—despite the action and glamour—it’s ultimately a family series.With sharp insight, behind-the-scenes stories, and reflections on Bond’s legacy and future, this episode is essential listening for any Bond fan who wants to go deeper than the gun barrel.Where to find usSteven Jay Rubinhttps://www.stevenjayrubin.com/Bill Koenighttps://hmssweblog.wordpress.com/Javi Trujillohttps://bsky.app/profile/javitru.bsky.social or https://www.instagram.com/thebondisnotenough
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41:00
S2E005 Licence to Legacy - The World is Not Enough (part 2)
Special guest Kyle Barbeau joins Javi Trujillo, Bill Koenig, and David Leigh as we continue our deep dive into The World Is Not Enough for its 25th anniversary.In this episode, we examine the lasting influence of screenwriters Neal Purvis and Robert Wade, whose contributions have shaped the Bond series for over two decades. We also discuss the evolution of M’s role in TWINE and beyond, how the film handled its rare female villain, and what these choices meant for the franchise at the time.Along the way, we share personal connections to the film, discuss whether it is Brosnan's Goldfinger, reflect on David Arnold’s score and question whether it’s time for his long-awaited return to the series, and consider the lessons Amazon might take from it as they shape the future of 007. Packed with analysis, nostalgia, and a few unexpected tangents, this is an episode no Bond fan should miss!This episode was recorded on 22nd February in the United States and Spain.You can find us at:Kyle Barbeauhttps://www.instagram.com/easysmilesandexpensivewatchesJavi Trujillohttps://bsky.app/profile/javitru.bsky.social or https://www.instagram.com/thebondisnotenoughBill Koenighttps://hmssweblog.wordpress.comDavid Leighhttps://www.thejamesbonddossier.com
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36:52
S2E004 Licence to Legacy - The World is Not Enough (part 1)
Hosts Javi Trujillo, Bill Koenig, and David Leigh are joined by special guest Kyle Barbeau to mark the 25th anniversary of The World Is Not Enough. We revisit our memories of its release, debate where it ranks among the 25 Bond films, and break down the explosive (and unusually long) pre-title sequence.We also reflect on Desmond Llewelyn’s final turn as Q and his lasting legacy. Along the way, we veer into pondering where a James Bond Mount Rushmore should be located and whether Amazon might take inspiration from Casino Royale (1954) for future Bond projects.It’s an episode filled with nostalgia, deep dives, and a few unexpected tangents. Don’t miss it!This episode was recorded on 22nd February in the United States and Spain.You can find us at:Kyle Barbeauhttps://www.instagram.com/easysmilesandexpensivewatches/Javi Trujillohttps://bsky.app/profile/javitru.bsky.social or https://www.instagram.com/thebondisnotenough/Bill Koenighttps://hmssweblog.wordpress.com/David Leighhttps://www.thejamesbonddossier.com/
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34:14
S2E003 Broccoli and Wilson step back: What’s next for James Bond under Amazon MGM's creative control?
Today Amazon MGM and Eon Productions released a press release that stunned Bond fans everywhere. It details how Barbara Broccoli and Michael G Wilson will be stepping back from the Bond franchise, with Amazon MGM taking over creative control.In this episode we discuss our initial reactions to the news, as well as our hopes and fears for Bond 26 and the future of James Bond.Recorded on 20th February 2025 in the United States and Spain.You can find us at:Javi Trujillohttps://bsky.app/profile/javitru.bsky.social or https://www.instagram.com/thebondisnotenough/Bill Koenighttps://hmssweblog.wordpress.com/David Leighhttps://www.thejamesbonddossier.com/
The 007 Files podcast dives deep into the world of James Bond, blending expert analysis with casual conversation. Co-hosted by David Leigh, author of The Complete Guide to the Drinks of James Bond and founder of The James Bond Dossier, Bill Koenig of The Spy Command and Javi Trujillo, the podcast explores Bond's films, books, and cultural impact. Stay tuned for everything from in-depth reviews to Bond 26 updates and discussions of all things 007. Perfect for lifelong fans and new recruits alike!