Denis Villeneuve will begin filming the 26th James Bond movie in the United Kingdom in October, Amazon MGM Studios announced Wednesday, potentially signaling a shift in approach for the long-running spy franchise.
The announcement follows years of speculation regarding the future of 007 after Daniel Craig concluded his run with 2021’s No Time to Die, a film in which his iteration of Bond died. Villeneuve, known for directing critically acclaimed films such as Dune, Arrival, and Blade Runner 2049, is expected to bring his signature visual style and complex character studies to the series.
Whereas Amazon MGM Studios has remained tight-lipped about casting, reports indicate that actor Jacob Elordi has been approached for the role. If cast, Elordi would be the second Australian actor to portray Bond, following George Lazenby in 1969’s On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.
The selection of Villeneuve, a director celebrated for his “immersive storytelling,” suggests a potential move towards a grittier, more realistic tone, reminiscent of Daniel Craig’s portrayal of Bond in Casino Royale, according to observers. This contrasts with the more fantastical elements present in earlier Bond films.
Steven Knight, the creator of the television series Peaky Blinders, penned the story for the upcoming film, details of which have not been released. The change in leadership at the Bond franchise, with Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson stepping down and Amazon taking control in February, has added to the anticipation surrounding the project.
Some observers have speculated that the next installment could accept the form of an origin story, exploring Bond’s early career. However, a novel approach, drawing inspiration from the 1967 satirical film Casino Royale starring David Niven, could offer a unique path forward. That film featured multiple actors portraying James Bond, suggesting a lineage of 007 agents. Applying this concept to the current franchise could allow for a “soft reboot,” introducing a new Bond while maintaining continuity with the established elements of the Craig era, including returning characters like M, played by Ralph Fiennes, Moneypenny, played by Naomie Harris, and Q, played by Ben Whishaw.
Villeneuve’s next project, Dune: Part Three, is scheduled for release on December 18, 2026.
