The next James Bond movie now has a director. Amazon MGM Studios announced that Denis Villeneuve will be helming the new 007 film. The film is being executive-produced by Amy Pascal and David Heyman, who are now being joined by Tanya Lapointe as an executive producer. Tanya LaPointe has previously collaborated with Villeneuve on multiple films. They are also married.
Villeneuve commented, “Some of my earliest movie-going memories are connected to 007. I grew up watching James Bond films with my father, ever since Dr. No with Sean Connery. I’m a die-hard Bond fan. To me, he’s sacred territory. I intend to honor the tradition and open the path for many new missions to come. This is a massive responsibility, but also, incredibly exciting for me and a huge honor. Amy, David, and I are absolutely thrilled to bring him back to the screen. Thank you to Amazon MGM Studios for their trust.”
Mike Hopkins, head of Prime Video and Amazon MGM Studios, commented, “We are honored that Denis has agreed to direct James Bond’s next chapter. He is a cinematic master, whose filmography speaks for itself. From Blade Runner 2049 to Arrival to the Dune films, he has delivered compelling worlds, dynamic visuals, complex characters, and—most importantly—the immersive storytelling that global audiences yearn to experience in theaters. James Bond is in the hands of one of today’s greatest filmmakers and we cannot wait to get started on 007’s next adventure.”
Pascal and Heyman commented, “Denis Villeneuve has been in love with James Bond movies since he was a little boy. It was always his dream to make this movie, and now it’s ours, too. We are lucky to be in the hands of this extraordinary filmmaker.”
Denise Villeneuve is an Academy Award-nominated French-Canadian filmmaker. He is known for directing Dune: Part One and Dune: Part Two. Three out of the last four of Villeneuve’s films have been nominated for Academy Awards for Best Picture, including Arrival. This film also earned him a Best Director nomination.
The announcement that Villeneuve will be directing the next film comes after Amazon MGM Studios closed a new joint venture with Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson. This gives Amazon MGM Studios creative control of the James Bond intellectual property rights.
A new actor to portray James Bond has not been announced. A timeline for the next 007 film hasn’t been announced either. Currently, it appears that Villeneuve might have a couple of films in the pipeline before he could direct the next 007 flick. His schedule could change potentially. The last film was No Time to Die, the final film with Daniel Craig in the lead role.
What do you think of Denis Villeneuve directing the next James Bond? Are you excited about this announcement? What would you like to see done with this franchise? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!
