It's rare that a director decides to tackle more than one James Bond film, Martin Campbell being the last to do so, but there also haven't been many to have the immediate impact as Sam Mendes had on Skyfall. Bouncing back from the lackluster Quantum of Solace, Mendes turned Skyfall into a $1B-grossing smash that earned a whopping five Oscar-nominations. In recent months it was beginning to sound like Mendes was leaning towards coming back for at least one more film, but it sounds as if he's had a change of heart.
While talking with Empire, Mendes revealed that his busy schedule is largely the reason for his decision not to return for the 24th Bond film, which is already in the planning stages....
Mendes: “It has been a very difficult decision not to accept Michael and Barbara’s very generous offer to direct the next Bond movie," explained Mendes. "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."
Even if he doesn't direct, Mendes' influence is still going to be felt on whatever the next film turns out to be. We learned that he was assisting in the development of the storyline, working with writer John Logan on what at the time was said to be a two-part story. That idea was ultimately scrapped last month, just as it was rumored Mendes was extremely close to committing to the film.
The door for Mendes to return is still open, and he sounds more than willing to step through it at some later date...
Mendes: "I feel very honoured to have been part of the Bond family, and very much hope I have a chance to work with them again sometime in the future".
It was eleven years between Bond films for Martin Campbell, but hopefully we won't have to wait that long for Mendes' comeback. So who do you think should take over directing Bond 24? Let us know your picks.
