The 007 franchise is in good hands. After months of searching and controversy, the beloved British franchise has announced the director who will be taking on the reins for the next James Bond film.
Denis Villeneuve, director of the "Dune" films, has been announced as the director of the upcoming James Bond movie. "I grew up watching James Bond films with my father, ever since Dr. No with Sean Connery," said Villeneuve in a statement. "I'm a die-hard Bond fan."
"To me, he's sacred territory," he continued. "I intend to honor the tradition and open the path for many new missions to come. This is a massive responsibility, but also, incredibly exciting for me and a huge honor."
Over the past couple of years, the Quebecois filmmaker has taken on many prestigious projects, including "Blade Runner: 2049," "Arrival," and "Sicario," with these films reviving beloved properties, amassing critical acclaim, and even launching franchises of their own.
His wife, Tanya Lapointe, will serve as one of the movie's producers.
When is the next James Bond coming?
While this is the biggest news to happen to James Bond since it was announced that it was owned by Amazon MGM, we're still years away from seeing the new 007. Villeneuve is currently working on "Dune: Messiah," the last entry in the "Dune" trilogy, scheduled for release in December 2026.
In the coming months, we should know more about Bond's casting, a decision that has sparked plenty of conversation. Some of the names that have been thrown around for the next Bond include Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Henry Cavill, Theo James, and more.
If you need your fill of James Bond, the franchise has announced an upcoming video game titled "007: First Light," following a young Bond as he trains to become the spy we know and love. The role will be played by Patrick Gibson.