Los Angeles, Director Steven Spielberg wanted to add a Bond film to his storied career in Hollywood but was rejected twice and now he believes the makers cannot afford him.
During a recent interview on The Rest Is Entertainment podcast, the Disclosure Day director was asked whether he had any regrets about not helming a 007 film.
"I have regrets that they didn't approach me to direct a Bond film. I approached Cubby Broccoli after Jaws was a big hit. I'd always wanted to make a James Bond film from the day I saw Dr. No, so I called Cubby Broccoli after Jaws and volunteered. I said, 'If you need a director, I would love to direct one.' And he said no and he moved on," Spielberg said.
The E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial director then pitched himself again after the release of Close Encounters of the Third Kind when Broccoli reached out to him asking to use the film's iconic five-note musical melody in a scene in 1979's Moonraker.
"I said, 'I'll make you a deal. I'll give you permission to use the five notes if you let me direct a Bond film.' And he said no. But I gave him the five notes anyway," Spielberg recounted.
But this missed opportunity led to one of his most memorable franchises in Indiana Jones. He went on to direct four films in the series.
When asked whether he was still open to directing a Bond movie, Spielberg said, "My answer would be: 'You can't afford me.'"
The franchise is now with Amazon MGM Studios and Dune director Denis Villeneuve has been tapped to direct the next installment. The search for the next actor to play Bond after Daniel Craig is still on.
Spielberg's latest film, Disclosure Day, releases in theatres on Friday.
