It might sound like a surprise –– and not least because of the filmmaker’s current busy schedule –– but despite his love of putting his stamp on projects, he’s worked comfortably in the blockbuster/franchise space before –– besides the ‘Dune’ movies, there was ‘Blade Runner 2049’.

Villeneuve is now part of a team that already includes producers David Heyman and Amy Pascal, and executive producer Tanya Lapointe (who has worked with Villeneuve for years).

Here’s what Villeneuve had to say on the news:

“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.”

And here’s Mike Hopkins, head of Prime Video and Amazon MGM Studios:

“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.”

Finally, Heyman and Pascal weighed in on the decision:

“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.”

Previously, such other well-known directors including Edward Berger, Edgar Wright, Chris Nolan, Paul King and Alfonso Cuarón have been rumored for the job, but now Villeneuve will segue from spice to spycraft.

Related Article: Amazon Officially Sets Amy Pascal and David Heyman to Produce Bond Movies

Who could play Bond?

Aaron Pierre as Terry Richmond in ‘Rebel Ridge’. Photo: Allyson Riggs/Netflix © 2024.

That’s the next big question that fans are looking to answer.

We’ve had a wealth of names speculated about since Daniel Craig hung up his holster and downed his last martini (and, er –– spoiler alert for ‘No Time to Die’ –– was blown up by a missile).

In that time the likes of Idris Elba, Theo James, Richard Madden, Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Henry Cavill have all been mooted.

Currently, the main name in the mix seems to be Aaron Pierre, who has impressed in ‘The Underground Railroad’, ‘Foe’ and particularly ‘Rebel Ridge’ where he proved his action/drama chops.

Pierre will next be seen in DC/HBO series ‘Lanterns’.

The Amazon MGM movement comes, of course, after the surprise decision by 007 stewards Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson to hand the reins of the franchise over to the company for a hefty pay day.

Talking of…

Bond handover: the studio and producers’ comments

Daniel Craig as James Bond in ‘Casino Royale.’

This was Wilson’s comment at the time:

“With my 007 career spanning nearly 60 incredible years, I am stepping back from producing the James Bond films to focus on art and charitable projects. Therefore, Barbara and I agree, it is time for our trusted partner, Amazon MGM Studios, to lead James Bond into the future.”

And crucially, Barbara Broccoli:

“My life has been dedicated to maintaining and building upon the extraordinary legacy that was handed to Michael and me by our father, producer Cubby Broccoli. I have had the honour of working closely with four of the tremendously talented actors who have played 007 and thousands of wonderful artists within the industry. With the conclusion of ‘No Time to Die’ and Michael retiring from the films, I feel it is time to focus on my other projects.”

Broccoli and Wilson stepping back is perhaps less of a surprise these days since she in particular has expressed frustration with the Amazon deal. And this way, the duo will have some small say in the future, but also enjoy what is surely a healthy payday.

When will the new Bond movie be on screens?

With Villeneuve currently busy preparing to make the third ‘Dune’ outing (that one is scheduled for December 16th, 2026), we wouldn’t expect to see a new Bond much before 2027 at the earliest.

Let’s not forget –– hiring a director is just the first step. Now the current Bond team needs a script and a leading man around which the build the new movie.

Daniel Craig as James Bond in 2012’s ‘Skyfall.’

List of James Bond Movies:

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