While it has always seemed so far-fetched, there has been a long-running rumor that Christopher Nolan was in the running to be the next director of a James Bond film. While the filmmaker seems very happy making films outside of the franchise world, fans of Bond have been excited by the prospect of what he might do with the world’s most famous spy. Well, sorry Bond fans, it doesn’t appear that is going to happen anytime soon.
In a recent interview with the Associated Press, Christopher Nolan was asked if he was happy the strikes are now over and he can work on his next project. The interviewer then slipped in a little question about whether or not the next project could be a James Bond film.
“No, sadly no,” said Nolan. “No truth to those rumors, but I’m very thrilled the strike is over and we can all get back to work.”
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Again, the rumor that Nolan was in the running for Bond has persisted for years. Some of the fuel for it comes from the filmmaker’s outspoken appreciation for the spy franchise. And some of it comes from scoopers insisting that Barbara Broccoli and the other Bond producers are talking to Nolan about working together. But, when you see recent comments from Nolan about franchise filmmaking—he’d only do it again if he had complete creative control—it seems very unlikely that he will ever get the job as a Bond director.
Though the films are often good, Broccoli and the other Bond producers are incredibly protective over the 007 brand. Filmmakers with visions are allowed to play in the world, but they all must take a backseat to what the stewards of the franchise want to happen, at the end of the day. This is likely why someone like Danny Boyle ended up leaving the franchise before he could make his Bond film.
So, with Nolan demanding (and deserving) complete creative freedom with his films, the idea of him ever making a Bond film seems very unlikely. And now, at least for the more immediate future, he’s willing to debunk the rumor full-stop.
You can watch the full interview below:
