Barbara Broccoli and Michael Wilson, the celebrated producers behind the James Bond franchise, are joining forces with Amazon MGM Studios to develop a new adaptation of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Based on Ian Fleming’s beloved children’s novel, the original 1968 film has held a cherished place in cinematic history, and now, this timeless story is set for a modern revival.
According to Deadline, the project is in its early stages, with Eon Productions and Amazon executives actively meeting to finalise a screenwriter and director. The film is being planned for a theatrical release, leveraging the expertise of Broccoli and Wilson, who have spent decades modernizing the James Bond series.
The original Chitty Chitty Bang Bang movie, written by Roald Dahl and Ken Hughes, followed the whimsical adventures of Caractacus Potts (played by Dick Van Dyke) and his magical flying car. Alongside memorable characters like the sinister Baron Bomburst (Gert Fröbe) and iconic songs, including the Oscar-nominated title track, the film became a hallmark of 20th-century family entertainment. The story’s charm extended to the stage, with a musical adaptation in 2002 that earned Olivier and Tony nominations and toured globally, including in the UK, the US, Australia, and Singapore.
This reboot presents an opportunity to reintroduce Chitty Chitty Bang Bang to modern audiences while preserving its timeless appeal. With advancements in visuals, production design, and storytelling, the new film aims to captivate younger generations without losing the whimsical essence that defined the original.
A reboot of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is both an ambitious and exciting project for Eon Productions. While it marks a departure from their high-octane action roots, the opportunity to reinterpret such a beloved musical fantasy is a promising venture. If executed well, this new adaptation could transform a vintage classic into a thrilling adventure for audiences of all ages, ensuring that the magical flying car takes off once again in spectacular style.