James Bond: Denis Villeneuve to direct next Bond film

The James Bond saga enters a new era. Four years after Mourir peut attendre, which marked the end of Daniel Craig’s reign, a wind of renewal blows over the 26th opus. A change of actor, a new production… and, above all, Denis Villeneuve confirmed as director. The author of Dune and Prisoners has been chosen to give the British spy a new direction.

New director, new challenges

Christopher Nolan, who has long been rumored, will not be at the helm. Denis Villeneuve, who has been passionate about the saga since childhood, was officially announced by Amazon MGM Studios on June 25, 2025. In a press release, he said he wanted to “honor tradition while paving the way for new missions”. The approach thus promises to be respectful of heritage while looking to the future.

A high-voltage production… with a very big budget

This new film is also the fruit of a major strategic change: Amazon acquired MGM Studios for a billion dollars, gaining creative control over the saga. Although Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson, the historical guardians of James Bond, resisted for a long time, they finally agreed to a deal in the form of a joint venture. As a result, Amy Pascal(Spider-Man) and David Heyman(Harry Potter, Barbie) are co-producing the film.

Casting remains a mystery

The next James Bond still has no official face. Among the names being considered are Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Josh O’Connor, Callum Turner, and Henry Cavill, who is regularly acclaimed by fans. Even Phoebe Waller-Bridge, already co-writer of Die Can Wait, had been mooted as director before Villeneuve’s choice. The as-yet-undisclosed cast could hold some surprises.

Practical info

🎬 Film: 26th instalment of the James Bond saga
🎥 Director: Denis Villeneuve
🎞️ Production: Amazon MGM, with Amy Pascal and David Heyman
🎭 Casting: to be confirmed
📆 Release date: unannounced

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