Denis Villeneuve to Direct Next James Bond Film for Amazon MGM

LOS ANGELES, CA — Renowned director Denis Villeneuve has been appointed to helm the upcoming James Bond film, marking the franchise’s transition under Amazon MGM‘s control. The news was revealed on June 25, 2025, and signifies a new chapter for the iconic series.

Villeneuve, an acclaimed filmmaker known for movies like ‘Dune‘ and ‘Blade Runner 2049’, expressed his excitement about the project. ‘Some of my earliest movie-going memories are connected to 007. I grew up watching James Bond films with my father, ever since ‘Dr. No’ with Sean Connery. I’m a die-hard Bond fan,’ Villeneuve said. ‘This is a massive responsibility, but also incredibly exciting for me and a huge honor.’

Alongside Villeneuve, Tanya Lapointe will serve as executive producer. Producers Amy Pascal and David Heyman expressed their enthusiasm, stating, ‘Denis Villeneuve has been in love with James Bond movies since he was a little boy. It was always his dream to make this movie, and now it’s ours, too.’

The film will be the 26th installment in the Bond franchise, following the 2021 release ‘No Time to Die’, which marked Daniel Craig’s exit from the role. Villeneuve’s appointment comes after long-time producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson handed creative control to Amazon MGM.

Previously, the franchise faced delays as Amazon acquired MGM for $8.5 billion in 2021, obtaining rights to distribute the Bond films. Villeneuve’s involvement is seen as a turning point, with hopes high for a refreshing take on the legendary character.

Villeneuve is currently completing work on the third installment of ‘Dune’, scheduled to shoot this summer. Although no production start date for the Bond film has been officially announced, the studio is actively looking for a screenwriter to collaborate with Villeneuve.

This new Bond film represents an exciting evolution in the series, promising to honor the rich history of the character while paving the way for future generations of storytelling. Villeneuve concluded, ‘I intend to honor the tradition and open the path for many new missions to come.’