Denis Villeneuve: He is directing the new "James Bond" film

Denis Villeneuve (57) will direct the next "James Bond" film, according to media reports from Amazon MGM Studios. The Oscar-nominated filmmaker from Canada most recently directed the blockbusters "Dune" and "Dune: Part Two." He also directed films such as "Arrival," "Sicario," and "Blade Runner 2049."

In a statement, Villeneuve said of his new role as "Bond" director: "Some of my earliest memories of cinema are associated with 007. I grew up watching James Bond films with my father, ever since 'Dr. No' with Sean Connery. I am a die-hard Bond fan." The films are sacred to him, the 57-year-old explained, adding: "I intend to honor the tradition and pave the way for many new missions. This is a great responsibility, but also incredibly exciting for me and a great honor."

Amazon MGM Studios head Mike Hopkins reportedly said : "We are honored that Denis has agreed to direct the next chapter of James Bond. He is a master of cinema whose filmography speaks for itself." James Bond is "in the hands of one of the greatest filmmakers of our time, and we can't wait to begin 007's next adventure."

Before that, however, according to media reports, the director apparently has other projects planned. He is set to begin shooting his third "Dune" film, "Dune: Messiah," soon. He is also reportedly planning two more science fiction films.

When the next "Bond" film will be released in theaters is not yet known. The search for a successor to Daniel Craig (57), whose last 007 adventure, "No Time to Die," hit theaters in 2021, is reportedly still ongoing. Actors Aaron Taylor-Johnson (35), Theo James (40), and James Norton (39) are considered favorites for the role.

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