With 25 movies spanning over decades and a combined revenue of $7.8B, James Bond has evolved as a great franchise and an iconic character. The character was brought to life by 6 actors, the latest in the line being Daniel Craig, and directed by 12 different directors. The most recent film in the series was No Time To Die, released in 2021.
Following the departure of Daniel Craig after the last film, speculation arose about who would take on the roles of the next actor and director. Amidst these speculations, a suggestion has been made by one of the franchise’s previous directors.
Skyfall Director Sam Mendes Proposes A ‘Relevant’ Choice For New James Bond Director
Sam Mendes directed two installments in the James Bond series, Skyfall released in 2012, and Spectre released in 2015. Sam Mendes points out that as the movies have spanned decades, the 007 character has also evolved over time. The 1917 director notes the character’s transformation from a misogynistic figure to a more respectful and modern portrayal.
Mendes believes that this evolution should be reflected behind the scenes as well, suggesting that a woman director should take the lead for the next James Bond film. The American Beauty director feels that a director who aligns with the ideals of the current generation should shape the future of the James Bond character. Mendes shared:
“I think that the actor playing Bond is going to evolve, the director has to evolve. I think it would be wonderful to see a woman directing Bond. I think it would be wonderful.”
The decision remains with producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson. Broccoli is notably the most important person in the franchise and a testament to women’s involvement in James Bond. Meanwhile, another director has maintained contact with both producers, hoping for an opportunity to direct a James Bond film.
Fans Divided Over This Choice As Christopher Nolan Wants To Direct A James Bond Movie
In a recent episode of the Happy Sad Podcast with Josh Horowitz, Christopher Nolan admitted that it would be an “amazing privilege” to direct a James Bond movie. Interestingly, Nolan was previously approached to direct Spectre, but couldn’t take on the project due to his busy schedule. During the podcast, Nolan shared that if the opportunity arises in the future, he would be open to it under one condition. Nolan shared:
“You wouldn’t want to take on a film not fully committed to what you bring to the table creatively. So as a writer, casting, everything, it’s a full package. You’d have to be really needed, you’d have to be really wanted in terms of bringing the totality of what you bring to a character. Otherwise, I’m very happy to be first in line to see whatever they do.”
With such a legendary director expressing his wish to direct a James Bond film, it’s no wonder that fans have divided opinions on Sam Mendes’s proposal for a female director. It is also interesting to see who Nolan might choose for the titular character, with fans speculating the names of some Nolan favorites like Cillian Murphy, Tom Hardy, and Robert Pattinson.
Fans eagerly await any official announcements from the franchise regarding these decisions. In the meantime, viewers can stream the recent Bond movie, No Time to Die, on Amazon Prime.
Source: Deadline
