Martin Campbell Weighs In on Future of James Bond
Director Martin Campbell, renowned for steering the James Bond series back to its glory with two of the best movies, GoldenEye and Casino Royale, has once again emerged from the shadows, this time bearing his seasoned insights on the future of 007 amidst swirling eddies of legal tumult.
As Bond faces what might be his most daunting nemesis yet—a web of legal entanglements—Campbell discussed the uncertainty clouding the iconic series in a recent interview with Men’s Journal.
“Is there going to be another Bond? That’s the question,” mused the famous director, referencing the ongoing legal dispute involving Amazon and longtime Bond producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson.
Story continues below…
“It’s ironic, isn’t it? The same kind of legal quandary delayed GoldenEye. Now, here we are again, and God knows what’s going to happen,” Campbell added, unsure of when or if the franchise will see another reboot.
Speculating on the Next 007
Reflecting on the historical gaps between Bond actors, Campbell pointed out that it took six years to transition from Timothy Dalton‘s License to Kill to Pierce Brosnan‘s debut in GoldenEye. With four years already passed since Daniel Craig‘s departure with No Time to Die, Campbell predicts a wait of at least two to three more years before Bond returns to the big screen.
Of course, Martin Campbell also touched upon potential candidates for the next James Bond during discussions about his latest film, Cleaner, which features Daisy Ridley and Taz Skylar. Skylar, known for his charisma and youthful energy, caught Campbell’s eye as a possible future Bond.
“Taz is such a charismatic guy, isn’t he? He looks pretty young, but they’re going to have to cast someone young-ish, as he has to endure through five movies,” Campbell explained, considering the long-term demands of the role.
Campbell Doesn’t Expect a Bond TV Series
Despite the ongoing uncertainties and disputes, Campbell remains confident about the producers’ dedication to preserving Bond’s cinematic essence, and not going down the streaming TV series route.
“No, I know Barbara will absolutely stick to her guns and say this is a theatrical experience. This is not going to go to streaming immediately,” Campbell affirmed. “Bond is always an event picture. That’s the point. A Bond film. Wow. I always love it when a new Bond comes out.”
Some good news there at least!
