Despite Sam Mendes’ protestations in March that he had made “the very difficult decision” not to return to the Bond franchise, the director and the studios themselves announced today that he is on board to helm Bond 24. Daniel Craig is also set to don his tuxedo once more and play the legendary secret agent.
For fans of Skyfall, it’s good news all around; in addition to Mendes and Craig, writer John Logan is back to create the yet-untitled film’s script. The 23rd Bond film was the most critically acclaimed of the franchise, and also extremely profitable; Skyfall made a whopping $1.1b worldwide, making it the highest-grossing film of all time in the UK.
Mendes had been reluctant to commit to the film, citing a desire to work in theatre before settling down for another run with the secret agent franchise. From the looks of his official statement though, the director is ready to get back behind the camera.
“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,” said Mendes.
Bond 24 will hit theaters in the UK October 23, 2015, and in the United States November 6, 2015.
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