Steven Spielberg Unleashes Epic Burn on James Bond Franchise: 'You Can't Afford Me Now!'
Steven Spielberg recently disclosed his long-standing, yet repeatedly failed, attempts to direct a James Bond film, beginning after "Jaws" and continuing with a unique offer involving "Close Encounters of a Third Kind." These rejections ultimately led him to collaborate with George Lucas on the Indiana Jones franchise. Spielberg also shared his decision to forgo directing "Harry Potter" to prioritize time with his family, a choice he remains content with today.
Renowned Oscar-winning filmmaker Steven Spielberg recently shared insights into his cinematic journey, including his repeated, unsuccessful attempts to direct a James Bond movie, during his “Disclosure Day” press tour on “The Rest Is Entertainment” podcast. Spielberg harbored a long-standing aspiration to helm a Bond film, a dream ignited from the moment he first saw “Dr. No.”
His first direct approach to franchise producer Cubby Broccoli came after the monumental success of “Jaws.” Spielberg personally volunteered his directorial services, stating, “I called Cubby after ‘Jaws’ and volunteered. I said, ‘If you need a director, I would love to direct one.’ And he said no.” This initial rejection did not deter his ambition.
A few years later, after the release of his critically acclaimed film “Close Encounters of a Third Kind,” Spielberg found himself in communication with Broccoli again. This time, Broccoli was interested in utilizing the iconic five-note musical melody from “Close Encounters” for a scene in the Bond film “Moonraker.” Seizing the opportunity, Spielberg proposed a deal: “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 recalled, highlighting Broccoli’s consistent refusal without offering any explanation for keeping him out of the 'Bond family'.
This persistent rejection, however, inadvertently paved the way for another legendary franchise. In 1977, while in Hawaii preparing for the release of “Star Wars: A New Hope,” Spielberg recounted his Bond aspirations and rejections to George Lucas. It was then that Lucas presented him with an alternative: “I have something better than Bond. It’s called Indiana Smith,” which was the initial title for what would become the iconic Indiana Jones series. This conversation marked the genesis of Spielberg’s involvement with the beloved adventure franchise.
Reflecting on these past experiences, Spielberg now jests about his current standing, humorously remarking that if he were ever asked to make a Bond film today, his answer would be: “You can’t afford me.”
Beyond James Bond, Spielberg also revealed another major franchise opportunity he ultimately declined: “Harry Potter.” He had to turn down an offer to direct the first “Harry Potter” film, a decision he made for deeply personal reasons. In a 2023 interview, Spielberg explained, “I chose to turn down the first ‘Harry Potter’ to basically spend that next year and a half with my family, my young kids growing up. So I’d sacrificed a great franchise, which today looking back I’m very happy to have done, to be with my family.” This emphasizes his prioritization of family over professional endeavors, even those promising immense success.