So, bad news Bond fans. Sam Mendes (American Beauty, Skyfall) spoke at the Hay Festival of Literature in Wales and did not have good news…
“It was an incredible adventure, I loved every second of it, but I think it’s time for somebody else.”
Sam Mendes is officially done with James Bond films.
He has done great work with the Bond franchise and taken it to a level of genuinely good film, all the way around. Skyfall is easily one of the best entries in the entire franchise, featuring Daniel Craig at his absolute best. It will be sad to see their precision not included in the mix anymore. That being said, it does sound like Mendes has confidence with what the franchise has in store for the future after discussing potential new Bond picks and referring to famous Bond chooser Barbara Broccoli:
“It’s not a democracy … Barbara Broccoli decides who is going to be the next Bond, end of story. I can guarantee whatever happens with it, it will not be what you expect. That’s what she’s been brilliant at, and that’s how it’ll survive…it’s not a public vote, and I think we’re in an age where everything is deemed voteable on. Some things just aren’t and it’s better that way.”
It is a hard hit. Mendes was a perfect fit for these films, but I have confidence with what will come of them now that the bar has been set so high. And, if in doubt, just harness your inner Sean Connery and all will be fine in the world.