Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM: up $0.10 to $14.55, Research, Estimates) and Eon Productions are looking forward to cashing in on the superspy's style. The 20th Bond film in the series, "Die Another Day," starring Pierce Brosnan as James Bond and Halle Berry as Jinx (the latest Bond girl), arrived in theaters Nov. 22.
The film grossed an estimated $47 milllion -- the biggest opening for a Bond movie ever -- on its opening weekend.
Every new Bond film comes with new products and marketing tie-ins. "Die Another Day," is no exception. MGM is spending $30 million on advertising, according to Variety, and has enlisted more than 20 marketing partners who are reportedly contributing more than $120 million in worldwide promotions.
The last three Bond films featured BMW cars, but the latest film pays tribute to Bond's past by having the secret agent drive an Aston Martin with a passenger ejection seat -- first seen in "Goldfinger" in 1964.
The limited-edition 40th year anniversary 007 Seamaster.
Robert Emmons, president of Omega, said that James Bond has a "remarkable impact on the sales of Omega watches," adding that "people respond to Bond and want to own something that he has." The Omega Seamaster watch has been seen on Bond's wrist and, thanks to a few gadget alterations, helped him get out of some intense situations since 1995.
Omega is taking another step with a direct marketing promotion aimed specifically at James Bond fans. Moviegoers nationwide will receive a unique movie theater "playbill" (similar to those produced for Broadway shows) with the purchase of a "Die Another Day" ticket at the box office. The "playbill" will contain information about Omega, the film, how to win 007's watch and a trivia challenge.
If Omega is a little pricey, Swatch is introducing a collection of 20 watches themed after 20 Bond films. The watches are priced from $50 to $125 and a special collector's carrying case is available to hold all 20 of them for $150.
Attention Bond girls: Cosmetics company Revlon (REV: up $0.06 to $3.95, Research, Estimates) is introducing a limited edition 007 Color Collection inspired by favorite Bond movies.
"The Look of Jinx," played by Revlon spokeswoman Berry, and "The Look of Miranda Frost," an MI6 agent, are inspired by the "Die Another Day" film. |