Sam Mendes not doing next Bond movie – why Sam, why?

Sam Mendes ruins our happy buzz after the success of Skyfall, by refusing to make the next one.

By Genna Patterson

For those of you who thought Sam Mendes pulled Bond back from the brink, this news will be devastating - he wont be back for the next one. In an interview with movie website Empire, Mendes spoke about his decision not to return to the successful franchise and make the 24th Bond movie.

He said; “It has been a very difficult decision not to accept Michael (G. Wilson) and Barbara’s (Broccoli) very generous offer to direct the next Bond movie.”

He added, “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, that need my complete focus over the next year and beyond."

Who chooses Charlie and King Lear over James 007 Bond?!

Skyfall has become a favourite among Bond fans and so far has raked in an incredible $1.1 billion at the box office. With Daniel Craig returning for another two movies at least, and Adele in talks to do another Bond theme song after her Best Song Oscar this year, it’s surprising that Mendes refused the job.

While we’re raging with Mendes’ decision, he didn't rule out returning at a later stage saying; “I feel very honoured to have been part of the Bond family and very much hope I have a chance to work with them again sometime in the future.”

Mendes had a successful theatre career before he moved his focus to movies like his breakthrough Oscar winner American Beauty in 1999.

Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli spoke of Mendes refusal to direct; “We thoroughly enjoyed working with Sam. He directed our most successful Bond movie ever, Skyfall. We would have loved to have made the next film with him but completely respect his decision to focus on other projects and hope to have the opportunity to collaborate with him again."

Good luck to whoever tries to fill Mendes’ shoes for the next installment. We can't help but think that if Mendes does return in the future, it’ll surpass Skyfall both in quality and box office hits and leave the producers very happy people.

We're going to take this opportunity to show you the spoof Skyfall honest trailer from Screen Junkies to cheer you all up.