The 97th Academy Awards is set to feature a special musical tribute featuring iconic Bond theme songs from the franchise’s 60-year history as a way to honor longtime James Bond producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson
Details about what exactly the musical tribute will be remain unclear, whether it will feature James Bond theme songs across 26 films or only the songs nominated for or won an Oscar. According to sources, the tribute is described as “an assembly of surprising and immense talents.”
Since the release of the first James Bond film, Dr. No, in 1962, the series has become one of the longest running and highest grossing film franchises in cinematic history, with over 25 films spanning six decades. The Bond theme songs have played a significant role in shaping each entry’s identity and theme.
Although it took a while for Oscar voters to embrace and recognize Bond songs, the Academy has shown increased appreciation for them in recent years. Three themes have been nominated: “Live and Let Die” by Paul and Linda McCartney from Live and Let Die, “Nobody Does It Better” by Carly Simon from The Spy Who Loved Me, and “For Your Eyes Only” by Bill Conti and Mick Leeson from For Your Eyes Only.
Meanwhile, three Bond themes have won the Academy Award for Best Original Song: “Skyfall” by Adele and Paul Epworth from Skyfall, “Writing’s on the Wall” by Sam Smith and Jimmy Napes from Spectre, and “No Time to Die” by Billie Eilish and Finneas from No Time to Die.
The Bond franchise is anticipating a major shift in its longstanding history. Broccoli, Wilson, and Amazon MGM Studios have announced a new joint venture that will bring James Bond under the studio, granting Amazon full creative control over the franchise’s future in film and television, with Broccoli and Wilson as co-owners.
The producing duo hinted at the possibility of having a new James Bond as a woman. The last incarnation of the character was Daniel Craig, who made his debut as Agent 007 in 2005’s Casino Royale and last appearing in 2021’s No Time to Die. Since then, actors such as Idris Elba, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Henry Cavill, Tom Hardy, and Theo James have been popular choices in fan casts.
The 97th Oscars will be streaming live exclusively on Disney+ Philippines on March 3.