After struggling through its production with countless rewrites and delays, No Time to Die has finally arrived in theatres, concluding the Daniel Craig Bond era in spectacular fashion. The film, even with its flaws, was praised for its action, Craig's performance, and its emotional send-off. Craig's Bond films have been some of the most successful in the entire franchise, with other additions like Casino Royale and Skyfall offering a grittier, more grounded and emotional take on Ian Fleming's iconic character.
While many fans will definitely miss seeing Craig's version of 007 in action, there has already been much speculation regarding who will step up and fill the role. Idris Elba and Tom Hardy have been some of the top picks from fans for quite a while, with rumors also hinting that Bridgeton break-out star Regé-Jean Page could potentially become the next James Bond. But whoever ends up taking the role, it will depend on the assured direction overseeing the entire project as well, something that is equally as important as the titular role. There are obviously plenty of talented filmmakers, but there is one that would be able to helm a story at this scale. One that stands out the most and would be a perfect fit: Denis Villeneuve.
The visionary French Canadian director has emerged as one of the most promising storytellers in Hollywood that has caught the eyes of plenty. Starting out in the late '90s making indie foreign films to now helming epic blockbusters like Blade Runner 2049 and the upcoming Dune, which critics are already calling technical achievement, Villeneuve has shown no signs of slowing down, making him a solid pick to take on the next installment in such a beloved franchise.
With so much talent in front of the camera, there has also been tons behind it. Just looking at the Craig Bond films, filmmakers like Sam Mendes (Skyfall, 1917, Jarhead, Revolutionary Road, American Beauty, Road to Perdition) and most recently Cary Joji Fukunaga (No Time to Die, Beasts of No Nation, True Detective) have helped elevate their Bond depictions with their unique visions and experience working with different genres, something Villeneuve knows plenty about. Working with mystery, thriller, drama, crime, science-fiction, and action, Villeneuve can combine his knowledge of these elements to add a fresh perspective to Bond while still not incorporating the classic Bond tropes.
Another obvious reason he should direct the next 007 adaptation is his enthusiasm for the character. The director spoke on Josh Horowitz's hosted podcast, "Happy Sad Confused", about whether or not he'd be interested in directing a Bond film. Villeneuve answered (via Variety), "Franky — and I cannot believe I would say that — but the answer would be a massive yes. I would deeply love to one day make a James Bond movie. It’s a character that I’ve been with — like everybody — since my childhood. I have massive affection for Bond. It would be a big challenge for people to try and reboot it after what Daniel did. What Daniel Craig brought to Bond was so unique and strong and probably unmatchable. He’s the ultimate James Bond. I can’t wait to see Cary’s movie. I’m very excited. I’m one of the biggest Bond fans.” Realizing Villeneuve's clear understanding of the Bond world and what ingredients it takes to make the perfect film, the director could possibly deliver one of the most daring and intriguing Bond spectacles to date.
Other aspects from his filmography he could bring to the table include his use of eye-popping visuals. Like many of his films, Villeneuve relies heavily on visual storytelling rather than exposition, using his captivating imagery to guide audiences' attention throughout every scene. He lets the audience soak in every frame to create a memorable experience. With Bond's globe-trotting adventures, Villeneuve would be able to work with many vibrant landscapes that could add up to a feast for the eyes.
His work with incredible cinematography such as Roger Deakins (who he also worked with on Prisoners and Sicario), Bradford Young, and now Greig Fraser have created some of the visually stunning worlds for audiences to become wrapped up in. It's no surprise that his pairing with Deakins on Blade Runner 2049 was able to win big at the Oscars for Best Cinematography, and knowing of Deakins' involvement with past Bond installments like Skyfall, Villeneuve could bring him back to create something totally unique, vastly different, and unforgettable.
But, perhaps his biggest attribute is being able to bring out incredible performances from his stars. Having a character of Bond's caliber, and knowing that someone will attempt to top Craig's incredible portrayal, the film will need someone that understands how to write resonating characters for audiences to become invested in. Villeneuve brings out the best in the actors he's working with, placing them in vastly different roles that they maybe weren't as accustomed to ( whether it's Jackman transitioning from comic book films to his role as the desperate father in Prisoners or Gosling coming from rom coms to delivering a stoic and intense performance in Blade Runner 2049).
Villeneuve's evident involvement with completing Dune's 2nd part for Warner Bros. seems like his top priority as of now, and it may push back the next Bond installment if he were to become attached or even up for consideration, but with his current filmography and seeing his successful adaptations with Dune, it would be no surprise if studios decided to wait to assure he's on board.