As soon as SKYFALL shattered all the previous Bond records, speculation immediately began as to whether or not Sam Mendes would come back for the 24th James Bond film. At one point, he “officially” decided he wasn’t going to do it. Then he “officially” said he was not only doing the 24th film, but was going to do the 25th film as well. Then it was announced that nothing was actually “official” and maybe he wasn’t going to direct them after all. Well, today we finally get something concrete as producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbora Broccoli of EON productions released an official statement, confirming that Sam Mendes will be directing, John Logan will be returning as writer and of course, Daniel Craig will be James Bond. Not only that, but they officially set Bond 24 to be released in the US on November 6th, 2015 and in the UK on October 23rd, 2015.
In the press release, Sam Mendes said “I am very pleased that by giving me the time I need to honour all my theatre commitments, the producers have made it possible for me to direct ‘Bond 24.’ I very much look forward to taking up the reins again, and to working with Daniel Craig, Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli for a second time.”
So, it looks like the gang is back, but this time, the pressure is on to live up to the extraordinary success of SKYFALL. It’s strange to look at the Bond franchise as a quality franchise with in-depth storytelling and interesting characters, but that’s exactly what we have since Daniel Craig took over the suave tuxedo. And don’t forget, there’s still the rumor that Penelope Cruz will be the next Bond girl. With Sam Mendes officially on board, expect more casting announcements in the near future.
