Denis Villeneuve confirmed to helm next James Bond film: 'To me, he is sacred territory,' says the 'Dune' and 'Arrival' director

Filmmaker Denis Villeneuve, known for the two Dune films, Blade Runner 2049, and Arrival, has been confirmed to helm the next James Bond film. The new entry in the prestigious 007 franchise is now overseen by Amazon MGM, which will be more creatively involved as opposed to that of producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli, whose involvement this time around is supposedly not as active as before. 

A new actor, yet to be announced, will take over the iconic Ian Fleming creation — the suave playboy spy with a license to kill and a penchant for high life.

In an official statement, Villeneuve said: “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 honour 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 honour.”

Mike Hopkins, Amazon MGM Studios Head, added: “We are honoured that Denis has agreed to direct James Bond’s next chapter. He is a cinematic master, whose filmography speaks for itself … 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.”

Interestingly, Villeneuve's name has been attached to direct a Bond property for some time (along with directors like Christopher Nolan, Edgar Wright, and Edward Berger, who were also being considered). He was reportedly asked to direct the last film No Time to Die, with Daniel Craig, who had reached out to Villeneuve at the time. However, Villeneuve opted to direct Dune in 2021 instead.

ALSO READ: Denis Villeneuve hopes to make third 'Dune' film earlier than expected

However, the new film will take a while to arrive on screens given Villeneuve's involvement in the third Dune film, Dune: Messiah. It's not yet clear if he'll direct the Bond film immediately after.

Villeneuve directing Bond is a welcome move, given his recent successes with tentpole blockbusters and his ability to handle big-scale action and spectacle, as well as his gift for working well with strong protagonists in the crime thriller genre, and acclaimed work in films such as Prisoners and Sicario. Some of his past collaborators such as cinematographer Roger Deakins, actor Javier Bardem, and actress Lea Seydoux have been part of the Bond franchise.

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