Denis Villeneuve wants to direct a James Bond film.

The 54-year-old Dune filmmaker — who previously called out the Marvel Cinematic Universe movies as factory-formatted, cut and paste films — said he would love to take a shot at helming a movie in the long-running spy series if given the chance.

Asked about directing a 007 film by Josh Horowitz on the Happy Sad Confused podcast, Denis said: Frankly — and I cannot believe I would say that — but the answer would be a massive yes. I would deeply love to one day make a James Bond movie.

It's a character that I've been with — like everybody — since my childhood. I have massive affection for Bond.

Cary Joji Fukunaga has helmed the last movie to star Daniel Craig as the iconic spy, No Time To Die, and Denis thinks it will be challenging to reboot the series with a new lead star.

The Canadian auteur said: It would be a big challenge for people to try and reboot it after what Daniel did. What Daniel Craig brought to Bond was so unique and strong and probably unmatchable. He’s the ultimate James Bond. I can’t wait to see Cary’s movie. I’m very excited. I’m one of the biggest Bond fans.

Villeneuve also admitted that he wants to complete work on his two-part Dune story before turning his attention to a potential 007 flick.

He said: Just thinking about it, I'm tired. One thing at a time.

It's really a massive privilege. I don't want to say I'm very arrogant or pretentious right now. It's true that it would be a dream to do 007. I don't know if such a thing would happen, but it would be a privilege. At the end of the day, that would be pure cinematic joy.

Meanwhile, Barbara Broccoli, who looks after the Bond franchise with half-brother Michael G Wilson, said they wouldn't start searching for Craig's successor until next year. She told Radio 4's Today show: “We’re not thinking about it at all. We want Daniel to have his time of celebration. Next year we’ll start thinking about the future.” — BANG SHOWBIZ

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