Looks like Eon Productions are aiming to “diversify their portfolio” a little bit in the near future, by producing something other than a James Bond film. However, that’s not to say they’re straying very far from familiar territory either. Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli are teaming up with Sony for an adaptation of Mark Burnell’s upcoming novel Remote Control, which centers on (surprise, surprise) a British intelligence agent “who goes on the run with a former lover when he gets caught up in a conspiracy to destabilize the Chinese economy”. Burnell has previously written a number of other espionage-steeped thrillers including The Rhythm Section, which was optioned by New Line in 2005 but currently remains unproduced.

In addition, The Hollywood Reporter mentions in passing that they are also working on a remake of the 1968 family musical Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, which follows the adventures of a family and their magical flying car. While this may sound odd, the original was also produced by Albert R. Broccoli, as it was based on a children’s book by Ian Fleming. While I don’t have much to say about the Chitty Chitty Bang Bang remake, it’s pretty clear that spies and espionage are back in vogue and it’s not a bad idea for Eon to branch out with some different franchises. I just hope we’re not overwhelmed with too many Bourne clones in the next couple of years because something tells me the trend is going to get old fast.