With Daniel Craig confirmed for one last outing as James Bond, attention has naturally turned to who will direct the next movie.
Among the frontrunners was Blade Runner 2049's Denis Villeneuve, who comes fresh off the sci-fi sequel with critical acclaim.
While he previously confirmed he has had talks about Bond 25, it looks like it won't be happening after all due to the director's commitments to an adaptation of Dune.
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"Listen, I would love to do a Bond movie," Villeneuve told ScreenCrush. "I think Daniel Craig is a fantastic actor and I would like to, but several months ago I came in to do Dune and I engaged myself."
He added: "Once I commit, I commit. When Legendary offered me to do Dune, on a silver plate? Which was like my dream project that I'm dreaming to do for 30 years? I said yes right away. I want to honour that.
"It doesn't mean the movie will happen... and Bond is an old fantasy of mine, but I can't be in two places at the same time. It's a strange year because I would love to do a James Bond. I need to focus."
Villeneuve did not rule out giving the Bond franchise a shot in the future, however, admitting he would "love" to direct a movie.
"I said to Barbara [Broccoli], I would love to work with you and with Daniel, but I'm engaged! I would love to do it, honestly. I'm a spoiled filmmaker right now."
Well, with a new star poised to take over the role for Bond 26, a brand new lead combined with a visionary new director could bring a new lease of life to the franchise...
Bond 25 is due to hit cinemas on November 8, 2019.
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Sam is a freelance reporter and sub-editor who has a particular interest in movies, TV and music. After completing a journalism Masters at City University, London, Sam joined Digital Spy as a reporter, and has also freelanced for publications such as NME and Screen International. Sam, who also has a degree in Film, can wax lyrical about everything from Lord of the Rings to Love Is Blind, and is equally in his element crossing every 't' and dotting every 'i' as a sub-editor.
