After much deliberation about whether or not Sam Mendes would indeed return to direct the next Bond film, today the film’s producers and executives announced that not only will Daniel Craig be returning as the legendary British secret agent in the 24th James Bond film, Mendes will also return to direct the screenplay written by John Logan. Great news for James Bond Fans!
Mendes recently stated his theatre commitments to direct King Lear and Charlie and the Chocolate Factor would leave him unable to direct the film, but after the success of Skyfall producers were willing to work around Mendes’ schedule. Smart move. The film, titled simply, Bond 24, is set for theatrical release in the UK on October 23, 2015 and in the US on November 6, 2015.
“I am very pleased that by giving me the time I need to honour all my theatre commitments, the producers have made it possible for me to direct Bond 24. I very much look forward to taking up the reins again, and to working with Daniel Craig, Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli for a second time,” said Mendes.
As fans of the Mendes’ work on Skyfall – which made more than $1.1 billion worldwide after it’s release last summer – we’ve been following the talks pretty closely for awhile now. It’s been a roller coaster ride of emotions, and we couldn’t be happier to have Mendes back in the director’s chair.
We too are very pleased, Mendes.
