Following the surprising announcement of Amazon's acquisition of full creative control over the James Bond franchise, a recent report details the next steps for 007 – and reveals a surprising rejection of a high-profile director. Long-time producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson have stepped aside.
While a Bond TV series is being considered, Variety reports that a new Bond film remains Amazon's top priority. Their initial focus will reportedly be on securing a new producer, aiming for someone with the cohesive vision exemplified by David Heyman's work on the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts franchises.
The report also claims that Christopher Nolan expressed interest in directing a Bond film after Tenet, but was rejected by Broccoli, who maintained that no director would have final cut while she oversaw the franchise. Nolan subsequently directed Oppenheimer, a box office and critical success.
AnswerSee ResultsThe question of the next Bond actor is generating significant buzz. While Tom Hardy, Idris Elba, James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, and Aaron Taylor-Johnson (previously rumored as a frontrunner) are all being discussed, Henry Cavill appears to be the current fan favorite.
According to Variety, Amazon's ability to make casting decisions is contingent upon the completion of its acquisition of the Broccoli-Wilson interests, expected later this year. This follows reports of a tense standoff between the Broccoli family and Amazon, leaving the future of the franchise temporarily uncertain.
Amazon and Eon Productions have yet to publicly comment.
