Sam Mendes back in talks with Bond producers
Sam Mendes has resumed talks with the producers of the James Bond films about the possibility of directing the next in the series, the BBC understands.
The Skyfall director previously ruled himself out due to other commitments but is believed to be reconsidering.
According to industry website Deadline, his change of heart was prompted by Michael G Wilson and Barbara Broccoli's willingness to wait for him.
Skyfall, the 23rd official Bond film, earned more than $1.1bn (£727m).
It was named best British film at this year's Bafta Film Awards and is the highest-grossing movie in UK box office history.
Mendes was invited to direct Skyfall's successor but turned down the job due to theatre commitments in London.
The 47-year-old's musical version of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is currently in previews and he is scheduled to follow it with a staging of King Lear at the National Theatre.
It is understood, though, that the Bond team are prepared to postpone production on the next 007 feature until he is available.
Ang Lee, Christopher Nolan and Nicolas Winding Refn are among other leading directors rumoured to have been approached.
Speaking in March, Mendes said he felt "very honoured to have been part of the Bond family" and that he "very much" hoped to work with the 007 team again.
The last film-maker to helm consecutive Bond movies was former editor John Glen, who directed five instalments in a row between 1981 to 1989.