Denis Villeneuve to direct next James Bond film

Villeneuve’s credits include the Oscar-winning Dune: Part One and Dune: Part Two, as well as Blade Runner 2049, Arrival and Sicario.

Villeneuve commented: “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. Amy, David, and I are absolutely thrilled to bring him back to the screen. Thank you to Amazon MGM Studios for their trust.”

Earlier this year, former Sony film chief Amy Pascal and Harry Potter producer David Heyman were appointed as the new producers of the James Bond films, taking over from Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson. Ever since then, speculation has run high about who will direct the franchise’s next outing.

Amazon acquired MGM in 2022, including its catalogue with more than 4,000 films and the James Bond films.

Mike Hopkins, head of Prime Video and Amazon MGM Studios, commented, “We are honoured 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 theatres. 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.”

Pascal and Heyman commented: “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.”

Amazon acquired MGM in 2022, including its catalogue with more than 4,000 films and the James Bond films.