In a dramatic new chapter for Britain’s most iconic spy, Amazon MGM Studios has announced that Canadian director Denis Villeneuve will helm the next James Bond film.
The move marks a creative shift for the 007 franchise, signaling a new era for the franchise.
Villeneuve, best known for directing Dune and Dune: Part Two, as well as Arrival, Blade Runner 2049, Sicario, and Prisoners, expressed reverence for the character.
‘Some of my earliest movie-going memories are connected to 007,’ he said in a statement released Wednesday.
‘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.’
While acknowledging the enormous expectations, Villeneuve said he intends to ‘honour the tradition and open the path for many new missions to come.’
He called the opportunity ‘a massive responsibility, but also, incredibly exciting for me and a huge honour.’
The announcement comes during a period of major upheaval behind the scenes of the Bond universe.
After decades of tight creative control, producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson – heirs to the franchise through their father, original Bond producer Albert ‘Cubby’ Broccoli – have ceded key decision-making power to Amazon MGM Studios following a reported US$1billion deal.
Mike Hopkins, head of Amazon MGM Studios, praised the selection of Villeneuve: ‘We are honoured that Denis has agreed to direct James Bond’s next chapter. He is a cinematic master, whose filmography speaks for itself,’ he said in a statement.
‘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.’
This is a breaking news story, more to follow soon… Check back shortly for further updates.
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