Sad, but not completely unexpected news today.
According to a story on imdb.com, director Sam Mendes will not return to helm the next James Bond film.
Skyfall grossed $980-million by year-end 2012, the biggest box office take for a Bond movie. And it appeared that Mendes, who also helmed Revolutionary Road, Road to Perdition and American Beauty, would be back to guide Daniel Craig et al through the 24th movie.
However, Mendes’ rep has confirmed a statement he made to Empire magazine, in which he explained he was taking a pass on Bond 24 in order to pursue other interests.
“It has been a very difficult decision not to accept Michael and Barbara ’s very generous offer to direct the next Bond movie,” Mendes is quoted as saying. “Directing Skyfall was one of the best experiences of my professional life, but I have theatre and other commitments, including productions of Charlie And The Chocolate Factory and King Lear.”
Mendes has a long history of directing stage presentations and it appears that if you want to see his next work, you’ll have to book some tickets to London’s west end or New York’s Broadway district.
Too bad as Mendes really showed a deft hand with Skyfall, but 007 has proven time and again that he can bounce back from a body shot.