Spielberg's Longstanding Dream to Direct a Bond Film
Steven Spielberg, one of the most celebrated directors in Hollywood history, has long harbored a desire to direct a James Bond film. In a recent interview with The Rest Is Entertainment podcast, as reported by The Guardian, Spielberg revealed that his fascination with the super-spy franchise began with the very first Bond film, Dr. No (1962). He was determined to helm a Bond movie, but his efforts were repeatedly rebuffed by the franchise's longtime producer, Albert R. “Cubby” Broccoli.
After the massive success of Jaws in 1975, Spielberg felt confident enough to approach Broccoli directly. “I’d always wanted to make a James Bond film from the day I saw Dr. No,” Spielberg said. “So I called Cubby Broccoli after Jaws and I volunteered. I said, if you need a director, I would love to direct one. And he said, ‘No.’ And he moved on.” This blunt rejection did not deter Spielberg, who tried again two years later.
A Second Attempt and a Creative Bargain
In 1977, Broccoli contacted Spielberg about using five notes from the distinctive musical theme of Close Encounters of the Third Kind in the 1979 Bond film Moonraker. Spielberg saw an opportunity to negotiate. “I’ll make you a deal,” he told Broccoli. “I’ll give you permission to use the five notes if you let me direct a Bond film. And he said, ‘Nope.'” Despite the refusal, Spielberg graciously allowed the use of the notes anyway. “But I gave him the five notes,” he added.
Spielberg never received an explanation for why Broccoli consistently turned him down. “He never explained why he wasn’t letting me into the Bond family,” Spielberg recalled. The rejection stung, but it ultimately led to a silver lining that would define Spielberg's career.
The Birth of Indiana Jones
After being shut out of the Bond franchise, Spielberg shared his frustration with his friend George Lucas. Lucas, who had long been developing a concept for an adventure hero inspired by 1930s serials, offered Spielberg the opportunity to direct what would become Raiders of the Lost Ark. This collaboration launched the iconic Indiana Jones series, which became one of Spielberg's signature achievements. The franchise, starring Harrison Ford, has spanned multiple films and remains beloved by audiences worldwide.
Spielberg's loss was cinema's gain. While he never directed a Bond film, he created a character that rivals 007 in cultural impact. The Indiana Jones films have grossed billions and cemented Spielberg's legacy as a master of adventure storytelling.
A Changing of the Guard at Bond
The Bond franchise underwent a seismic shift in 2021 when Amazon acquired MGM Studios, which co-owns the Bond rights with the Broccoli family. Barbara Broccoli, Cubby's daughter, clashed with Amazon leadership over creative control. In early 2025, she stepped down and relinquished full control to Amazon, ending the Broccoli family's decades-long stewardship.
With the Broccolis no longer involved, speculation arose about whether Spielberg might finally get his chance. However, the director has a characteristically witty response. “If they ever asked me to make a Bond film now, my answer would be: ‘You can’t afford me.'”
Spielberg's comment reflects his current stature in Hollywood. At 79, he has little to prove and can command top dollar for his projects. His recent works, including The Fabelmans, have garnered critical acclaim, and he remains one of the industry's most sought-after directors.
What This Means for the Bond Franchise
Spielberg's rejection of a potential Bond offer underscores the franchise's uncertain future under Amazon. With the Broccolis gone, Amazon faces the challenge of revitalizing the series while respecting its legacy. Spielberg's absence is a missed opportunity for a director who could have brought a fresh perspective to the spy genre.
For fans, the story serves as a fascinating what-if. Imagine a Bond film directed by Steven Spielberg in the late 1970s or early 1980s, at the height of his powers. It might have rivaled his own Indiana Jones films. Instead, Spielberg channeled his energy into creating a different kind of hero, one that has stood the test of time.
As for Bond, the franchise continues to search for its next direction. With no director attached and the Broccoli family's departure, Amazon has a blank slate. Whether they can convince a director of Spielberg's caliber remains to be seen, but for now, Spielberg has made it clear: he's moved on.
This article is based on reporting by Gizmodo. Read the original article.
Originally published on gizmodo.com
