Sam Mendes Not Directing Next James Bond Film?

If you look back at the history of film especially in recent times with films that have become unexpected hits this news will come of no surprise.It may have been the most commercially successful Bond to date Skyfall but for the follow up James Bond 24 will be looking for new director as Sam Mendes wont be directing it.

Empire Magazine have revealed via an statement they received apparently from Sam Mendes himself saying that his time will be going on the theatre commiments, here’ what he told the magazine:“It has been a very difficult decision not to accept Michael and Barbara’s very generous offer to direct the next Bond movie”, Mendes said, explaining “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”.

As for directors returning to follow up the success is very rare, even more rarer in James Bond franchise with Martin Campbell the only exception. His return was already been questioned before Skyfall arrived in cinemas when he was reluctant to say he would return until the story of a possible of James Bond 24 and 25 been a 2 part story written with regular  co-writing partner John Logan. However Sam Mendes has completely ruled himself out stating in a Q&A promoting Skyfall saying he wouldn’t rule out the prospect of returning, “I felt I put everything I had into this movie, making it the Bond movie I would want to make. If I felt I could do it again, I would absolutely consider doing it again. But that’s a big ask, and if I can’t, it’s part of the fun to watch someone else have a go.” If he does return don’t expect October/November 2014 maybe more 2015.

Here’s what Broccoli had to say about today’s news “We thoroughly enjoyed working with Sam, he directed our most successful Bond movie ever, Skyfall. We would have loved to have made the next film with him but completely respect his decision to focus on other projects and hope to have the opportunity to collaborate with him again.” –

The news is a blow to Barbara Broccoli and Michael G Wilson however with exception of Daniel Craig, it’s a new cast, re-invented classic characters (Ralph Fiennes, Naomie Harris and Ben Wimshaw) it’s a virtually another clean slate for a new directors but what director would you like to see? I’m sure the gossipers will already be spreading Christopher Nolan’s name on the internet once again but would he be really viable choice or does he have the time or is he even interested in the job?Share your choice in the comments section below.