Amazon MGM Studios confirmed today that Denis Villeneuve will direct the next James Bond film. Tanya Lapointe, Villeneuve’s wife and producing partner, joins as executive producer, while, as previously announced, Amy Pascal and David Heyman will produce.
A new James Bond actor is yet to be announced.
Amazon MGM Studios sets Denis Villeneuve as director of next James Bond film.
— James Bond (@007) June 26, 2025
Tanya Lapointe will serve as executive producer. As previously announced, Amy Pascal and David Heyman will serve as producers. pic.twitter.com/E27wlBRuFI
Villeneuve’s Bond Connection
Villeneuve said the James Bond franchise helped shape his early love for movies. He called the opportunity a “massive responsibility” and said he intends to respect the character’s legacy while opening the door for future films.
“Some of my earliest movie-going memories are connected to 007. I grew up watching James Bond films with my father, ever since Dr. No with Sean Connery. I’m a die-hard Bond fan,” said Villeneuve. “To me, he’s sacred territory. I intend to honor the tradition and open the path for many new missions to come. This is a massive responsibility, but also, incredibly exciting for me and a huge honor. Amy, David, and I are absolutely thrilled to bring him back to the screen. Thank you to Amazon MGM Studios for their trust.”
Amazon’s Confidence in Villeneuve
Mike Hopkins of Amazon MGM Studios praised Villeneuve as “a cinematic master” and said the studio is eager to bring the next Bond film to theaters under his direction.
“We are honored that Denis has agreed to direct James Bond’s next chapter. He is a cinematic master, whose filmography speaks for itself,” said Hopkins. “From Blade Runner 2049 to Arrival to the Dune films, he has delivered compelling worlds, dynamic visuals, complex characters, and—most importantly—the immersive storytelling that global audiences yearn to experience in theaters. James Bond is in the hands of one of today’s greatest filmmakers and we cannot wait to get started on 007’s next adventure.”
Producers on Board
Amy Pascal and David Heyman backed the choice, noting that Villeneuve’s interest in Bond dates back to childhood. They said the film is now a shared dream.
“Denis Villeneuve has been in love with James Bond movies since he was a little boy. It was always his dream to make this movie, and now it’s ours, too. We are lucky to be in the hands of this extraordinary filmmaker,” said Pascal and Heyman.
Villeneuve’s Track Record
Villeneuve’s recent films include:
- Dune: Part Two (2024): Over $700M worldwide, 2 Oscars, BAFTA and Critics’ Choice nominations
- Dune: Part One (2021): 6 Oscars, major critics and guild recognition
- Arrival (2016): Nominated for Best Director, Best Picture
- Blade Runner 2049, Sicario, Prisoners, Enemy, and Incendies
Three of his last four films were nominated for Best Picture. Dune is now one of only four franchises to earn Best Picture nominations for its first two films.
Amazon’s Bond Deal
Amazon bought MGM in 2022. In early 2025, the studio struck a deal with longtime Bond stewards Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson, giving Amazon MGM Studios creative control of the James Bond IP.
