After filmmaker Danny Boyle’s high-profile departure from writing and directing the latest James Bond film, the producers have turned to two longtime Bond screenwriters to pen the new script while the search for a replacement director continues.
Neal Purvis and Robert Wade, who have written for the iconic spy film franchise since 1999’s The World Is Not Enough, have had their treatment, incorporating elements of Boyle’s original story, approved by the producers to progress into a full script.
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Purvis and Wade have co-written every installment of the Bond franchise since 1999 including 2002’s Die Another Day, 2006’s Casino Royale, 2008’s Quantum of Solace, 2012’s Skyfall, and 2015’s Spectre. The duo were reportedly replaced by longtime Boyle collaborator John Hodge who had co-written an initial draft with Boyle before his sudden departure last month due to creative differences with the producers.
While no director has been announced to replace Boyle, the rumored shortlist includes Edgar Wright (Baby Driver), Yann Demange (White Boy Rick), and David Mackenzie (Hell or High Water).
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Originally scheduled to begin principal photography on December 3 for a November 8, 2019 release date, the currently untitled Bond sequel is set to feature the return of Daniel Craig as the British super-spy.
(via Deadline)