Sam Mendes, the Academy Award-winning director behind the smash hit “Skyfall”, has confirmed that he will not be directing the next James Bond film.
Mendes, winner of the Outstanding British Film prize at last month’s BAFTA awards, claims to be too busy with his commitments in theatre to step behind the camera for the 24th installment of the Daniel Craig-centric spy franchise.
According to reports, Mendes regretfully chose to pass up producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli, saying, “It has been a very difficult decision not to accept Michael and Barbara’s very generous offer to direct the next Bond movie.”
”Directing ‘Skyfall’ was one of the best experiences of my professional life, but I have theatre and other commitments, including productions of Charlie And The Chocolate Factory and King Lear, that need my complete focus over the next year and beyond.”
“Skyfall” was a blockbuster smash, surpassing the $1.1 billion mark to becoming the highest-grossing film ever at the British box office. Following the movie’s success, the 47-year-old director was rumoured to be returning to the franchise.
Daniel Craig, Naomie Harris, Ben Whishaw, and Ralph Fiennes are all reported to reprise their roles in the upcoming action film, which begins shooting early next year.
Mendes won an Oscar in 1999 (Best Director – “American Beauty”).
By BahamasB2B Staff Writer