Sam Mendes says he won't direct the next James Bond movie

LOS ANGELES, May 29 (UPI) -- British filmmaker Sam Mendes, who helmed Skyfall and Spectre, says he won't direct the next James Bond movie.

"It was an incredible adventure. I loved every second of it," the Oscar-winner noted. "But I think it's time for somebody else."

The man who also made American Beauty and Revolutionary Road added he hopes the next filmmaker comes from an "unexpected direction."

The Hollywood Reporter said Mendes made the remarks during a weekend appearance at the Hay Festival of literature in Wales.

The Bond franchise's producers have not yet announced whether Daniel Craig will return for a fifth 007 movie. Craig has starred in the Bond blockbusters directed by Mendes, as well as their predecessors Casino Royale and Quantum of Solace.

Mendes dismisses as futile the notion that campaigning by fans will influence the producers regarding which actor should replace Craig if he doesn't come back for the next picture.

"It's not a democracy... Barbara Broccoli decides who is going to be the next Bond, end of story," he said.