I don’t think people realize just how close we were to having Christopher Nolan direct a James Bond movie. A few years ago he even admitted to having spoken to Bond producers about a possible directing gig.
I love James Bond and I’ve talked with the producers over the years, but nothing’s ever worked out. They do a great job—they don’t need me right now, and Sam [Mendes] is an extraordinary talent. I will absolutely be first in line to see the next Bond film as I have been for all of them.
The word is that Nolan was developing the story with Bond writers Purvis and Wade who would write the new film whilst he was finishing “Oppenheimer”.
The Nolan/Bond connections have reignited these last few years, but according to all the rumors I’ve been hearing, he’s not ready to direct, given his interest in other projects at the moment.
The search is still on for the next James Bond actor, but the hunt for the next 007 director is well underway and none other than Denis Villeneuve seems to be the frontrunner at the moment.
Although DeuxMoi is not the most reliable of sources, they are reporting on what I’ve also been hearing since January, that Villeneuve is the #1 target for Bond producer Barbara Broccoli.
In 2021, on the “Happy Sad Confused” podcast, Villeneuve, who is a self-admitted huge Bond fan, said it would be a dream for him to direct a movie in the franchise if he were ever asked.
Franky — and I cannot believe I would say that — but the answer would be a massive yes. I would deeply love to one day make a James Bond movie,” Villeneuve said. “It’s a character that I’ve been with — like everybody — since my childhood. I have massive affection for Bond. It would be a big challenge for people to try and reboot it after what Daniel did. What Daniel Craig brought to Bond was so unique and strong and probably unmatchable. He’s the ultimate James Bond. I can’t wait to see Cary’s movie. I’m very excited. I’m one of the biggest Bond fans.
Villeneuve was very close to making Daniel Craig's last film and it was said, by Baz Bamigboye, that Craig actively pursued him. However he turned it down as he got the “Dune” offer which was his dream film. Cary Fukunaga ended up getting the gig instead.
Villeneuve currently has the second chapter of “Dune” ready to be rolled out in November. He’s also hard at work on his “Cleopatra” movie. I do wonder if he’ll have the time to take on Bond. I bet he’ll make room for it on his schedule.
He’s already managed to direct two passion projects that he’s been dreaming about for decades: “Blade Runner 2049” and “Dune.” Bond would be the inevitable next mission for Villeneuve.