The Scorecard Review news
News: Sam Mendes has turned down an offer from producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli to direct Bond 24. Source: Empire
Thoughts by TSR: Skyfall was a huge commercial and critical success, so it should come as no surprise that Sam Mendes would be asked to return. Sadly, he has turned down the offer to direct Daniel Craig, Naomi Harris, Ben Whishaw, and Ralph Fiennes in the next Bond movie. That’s a bit unfortunate considering I was a big fan of Mendes’ direction, but I’m sure the producers will be able to find a worthy successor to the best director the series has had. Hopefully whoever they get is able to capitalize on the Bond, Moneypenny, M, and Q team Mendes set up in Skyfall. And to the person who gets the job, might I recommend doing whatever you can to get Roger Deakins back?
While Mendes didn’t rule out a possible return in the future, he gave Empire an understandable reason for passing up the opportunity this time:
“It has been a very difficult decision not to accept Michael and Barbara’s very generous offer to direct the next Bond movie. Directing Skyfall was one of the best experiences of my professional life, but I have theatre and other commitments, including productions of ‘Charlie And The Chocolate Factory’ and ‘King Lear,’ that need my complete focus over the next year and beyond."
If Benedict Cumberbatch as Willy Wonka is the villain in Bond 24, I guess we know why. Anyway, after two Oscar wins, a couple BAFTAs, and over a billion dollars worldwide, the next director has a lot to live up to. Craig's Layer Cake director, Matthew Vaughn, seems likely to be on the shortlist (isn't he always?). Personally, I kind of like the idea of Joe Wright. Regardless, I’m looking forward to seeing who gets the job.