It seems the director of "Blade Runner 2049" won't be bonding with the cast of "James Bond 25," as he has turned down the responsibility for the 25th Bond movie.
Denis Villeneuve apparently wants to focus on the science fiction sci-fi masterpiece "Dune" before taking up on other projects, but that does not mean he lacks interest in the yet-to-be-titled "Bond 25." Denis has then consequently turned down the role of director and will not be a part of the movie. It is worth noting that he was among the shortlisted choices of directors along with Yann Demange ("'71") and David Mackenzie ("Hell or High Water").
"The thing is I don't know about that, but listen, Daniel Craig is a very inspiring actor and I had some contact and the thing is that I'm busy right now doing 'Dune.' But, I will say to have the privilege to work with him it would be a dream. I would love to work with Daniel and a 'Bond' movie for me would be a treat. It's a matter of timing, I guess," said Denis. This also meant that Denis favors Craig again to reprise his role as Bond.
Still, Cinema Blend believes that a "Bond" movie with both Craig and Denis may happen in the future, though Craig being slated for replacement after "Bond 25" could make it implausible. The website also suggests that Denis is no stranger to action and espionage movies, as the director has had a colorful portfolio with 2015 cartel action movie "Sicario," and while "Blade Runner 2049" was a commercial flop, it was a critical success.
As for the upcoming "Bond 25," not much has been made open to the public. So far, only Craig has been confirmed to be returning to the cast, albeit this will be his last as Bond.
Behind the scenes, screenwriters Neil Purvis and Robert Wade will be penning the upcoming spy blockbuster. Fans expecting the Oscar-winning Christopher Waltz as the iconic Ernst Stavro Blofeld, where the comedy character Dr. Evil stemmed from, will be disappointed, as Waltz will not be reprising his role for the antagonist.
"James Bond 25" has not exact title yet but will be released in theaters on Nov. 8, 2019.
