English film director Sam Mendes, director of the lastest Bond film Skyfall which turned out to be a major box-office success and raked over a billion dollars worldwide last year, may be returning to direct the upcoming James Bond 24 movie. Um, yes please?
At first, it seemed like Mendes wouldn’t be attached to the project due to the fact that John Logan’s busy script-writing schedule included penning not one, but two Bond sequels, which would require Mendes to direct two movies back-to-back. However, those projects will be individual stand-alone films, and thus the director is now interested in helming the next installment.
After Quantum of Solace didn’t quite make it to the heart of some critics, Mendes’ Skyfall won them over with his classy and stylish direction. He presented an action-packed flick with a delicious emotional twist at its core and reminded us why we fell in love with the 007 character in the first place, while also gracefully handling the exit of Judi Dench’s character which paved the way for a new M to take over.
Mendes has proven that with his direction, the Bond films not only can display great action sequences and dazzling cinematography, but they can also portray some inherent psychological and thought-provoking themes with excellent characterization. If he comes on board, it’s safe to say fans will definitely be happy to see what he does with James Bond 24.
The film is predicted to start production later this year or earlier next year, with Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson as producers. Daniel Craig will be returning as the protagonist, with Ralph Fiennes in his new role as M and Naomie Harris as Moneypenny.
Mendes is currently working on his adaptation of Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, which opens on stage this summer, and then he’ll be helming the King Lear play. We’ll just have to sit tight until he’s finished his current projects, should he officially decide to direct James Bond 24.
