When Dune Director Denis Villeneuve Opened Up About His Lifelong Wish Of Making A James Bond Movie: “It Would Be A Massive…”
Did you know Dune director Denis Villeneuve once shared his desire to work on a James Bond film long before he was finalized to lead the 26th outing? Read on!
Denis Villeneuve Wants To Direct A James Bond Film? (Photo Credit – Prime Video)
Advertisement
Denis Villeneuve has a deep-rooted obsession with James Bond, and it turns out he was desperate for his shot at the 007 franchise long before he actually took up the reigns to helm a movie. The Dune director, fresh off the release of his epic sci-fi adaptation, revealed his fascination with the iconic spy back to his childhood.
But don’t get it twisted: he wasn’t just talking about any Bond movie. He was talking about stepping into the director’s chair for the series that had shaped his love for cinema. When asked about the possibility of taking the reins of a future Bond film, Villeneuve wasted no time jumping at the chance.
“Frankly—and I can’t believe I would say that—but the answer would be a massive yes,” he said on MTV’s Happy Sad Confused podcast, per Variety. The French-Canadian director clearly said he would love nothing more than to direct a Bond movie despite the hefty challenge it would present.
Denis Villeneuve Considered The Possibility Of Directing James Bond An Honor
Denis Villeneuve isn’t just a fan; he knows that following Craig’s Bond is tough. He called Craig’s portrayal “unmatchable” and “the ultimate James Bond,” but he’s excited about the franchise’s next chapter. Villeneuve said back then that the chance to direct a Bond film would be an honor, possibly unaware that his dream would soon turn into reality.
“It would be a massive privilege,” he confessed on the podcast. After Blade Runner 2049’s mixed reception in 2017, Villeneuve had a renewed understanding of taking on such a beloved franchise. “It’s really a massive privilege,” he reiterated, adding that while it’d be a dream, he wasn’t rushing to sign on just yet.
“One thing at a time, I’m tired,” he asserted. Bond remained a dream project until he was ready. Villeneuve wasn’t about to dive in immediately. His desire to direct a Bond film shows just how deeply the 007 legacy resonated with him. His passion for the character and the franchise’s history was clear, and his love for Bond never fading. And perhaps it was the same love and passion that turned his dream into reality.
Denis Villeneuve Set To Helm 26th James Bond Film
In 2025, Amazon MGM Studios announced Villeneuve will be directing the 26th James Bond film. As of now, the film is expected to release in 2028. The filmmaker also released an official statement, saying, “I grew up watching James Bond films with my father, ever since Dr. No with Sean Connery. I’m a die-hard Bond fan. To me, he’s sacred territory. I intend to honor the tradition and open the path for many new missions to come.”
What Other Projects Is Denis Villeneuve Working On?
Other than the next Bond film, Villeneuve is working Dune: Part Three, the third instalment of his award-winning Dune franchise. The movie is set to be released in 2026. He is also reportedly set to direct Cleopatra, a historical drama, although not much is known about the film so far.
During an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, the director also dropped hints about a secret project. “…I cannot talk about right now, but that needs to see the light of day quite quickly. So it would be a good idea to do something in between projects, before tackling Dune Messiah and Cleopatra. All these projects are still being written, so we’ll see where they go, but I have no control over that,” he shared.
