The financial saga and uncertain future of MGM and James Bond continues, but perhaps not for much longer.
With the studio finally having officially having filed for bankruptcy in preparation for its next phase of existence, MGM has begun making big plans for the return of James Bond, according to Bloomberg News.
The studio plans to shoot the next 007 film in the next two years with a release date of November 2012 being targeted. Further, MGM is reportedly planning to release a new 007 film at regular two-year intervals thereafter.
Focusing on the financial side, the studio will retain 50 percent of the rights to the 2012 film, while an equal partner will cover all production costs. Further Bond sequels will be fully owned and funded by MGM itself.
The biggest question swirling through all of this, though, is whether Daniel Craig will retain his role for the next film and for further installments.
One reason he might not come back is due to the long layoff until the next film. The other problem is whether Craig can take on the role while also being committed to all three installments of the Millennium Trilogy, which is currently in production with the first installment of "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo." If not, another Bond would obviously have to be cast, making that actor (maybe Tom Hardy? Hmmm?) the seventh official Bond.
In my opinion, there is no need for that move, at least not yet. While I think Pierce Brosnan was a worthy Bond, Craig brought a gruff, rugged and yet classic quality to the role that had been missing since the Roger Moore days. Craig revitalized the franchise, and while "Quantum of Solace" was a disappointment with critics, Craig was a disappointment with no one.
Clearly, only time will tell with what happens to this long-running series and also what will happen with Craig and his future commitments. That said, I see no reason why, with all this time leading up to production, that MGM can't figure out a way to keep their star while he also works on the hotly anticipated "Girl With the Dragon Tattoo."
Although nothing is set in stone, director Sam Mendes has long been rumored to be tapped as the director of the next Bond film, so imagine in two years if we get Craig back in the role and Mendes behind the lens? It's almost too good to be true.
I would personally enjoy seeing Clive Owen casted as the next Bond. From my understanding, (which may have stemmed from this blog), Owen was targeted to play Bond in Casino Royale before the role was offered to Daniel Craig. I think he fits the build well; tall, dark haired, english, and if he puts on a little muscle which isnt hard to do, I think he can own the serious and charismatic qualities the iconic character has offered decade after decade.
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