Ratner Considered by MGM & Brosnan

Of all the rumours currently floating around it seems there may be only one that holds any truth, that is that director Brett Ratner, of Rush Hour fame, is being considered to direct the film. However, it is now confirmed that Ratner was only being considered by MGM and not EON Productions.

Ratner was speaking with Zap2it.com recently to drum up publicity for his new film, Rush Hour 2. Of course the conversation turned to the recent rumours. Here’s what Ratner had to say;

“(Brosnan) called me and said I want you to direct the movie,” Ratner told Zap2it while promoting “Rush Hour 2.” “He said he was a huge fan. Unfortunately, he has nothing to do with it.”

Summing up the situation, Ratner said “The studio (MGM) wants me, and Pierce Brosnan wants me, but the Broccoli’s don’t want me.” The Broccoli family runs Eon, the company that has produced Bond since the beginning, 1962’s “Dr. No.” “But I begged them. I call them everyday and send them cookies.”

“It’s ’cause I’m American really,” Ratner said, explaining the Broccoli reasoning. “I’d be the only American director ever to direct a Bond. Also, I’m not 50 years old, and I have a mind of my own, and I’m a strong personality.”

So what does that mean? Well I’d say we can rule Ratner out of the race completely. Despite MGM wanting him the Broccoli’s, who produce the films, undoubtedly have the final say on who will direct the film; MGM could only hope to influence the decision.

The article comments that The Hollywood Reporter reports that the current frontrunners to direct are Stuart Baird (“U.S. Marshals”) and Stephen Hopkins (“Lost in Space”). You’ll find more rumours and mentions of the director throughout our news archive. Expect the decision about who will direct to be made within the next few months.

Till then I personally suggest you personally read the Bond 20 Forums where there are a lot of fantastic comments made about who should direct and who is really tipped to direct.