Denis Villeneuve to direct next James Bond film

Denis Villeneuve has been confirmed as the director for the next installment of the James Bond franchise.

Earlier this year Amazon acquired the rights to the spy saga in a multi-billion pound deal and is now working up plans for the 26th film, which will serve as the sequel to 2021’s No Time To Die.

Amy Pascal and David Heyman were previously announced as producers of the movie, and now Villeneuve – known for his work on Dune, Blade Runner 2049 and Arrival – is on board as the director.

“Some of my earliest movie-going memories are connected to 007,” said Villeneuve, who is currently working on the third Dune film. “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 honoru 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.”

Mike Hopkins, the head of Amazon MGM Studios, added: “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 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.”

The identity of Daniel Craig’s successor as 007 has yet to be announced, with the bookies currently putting Aaron Taylor-Johnson as the favourite. Also said to be in the running are Theo James, Henry Cavill, James Norton and Jack Lowden.