Skyfall begins its production

MANILA, Philippines - Producers Michael Wilson and Barbara Broccoli recently presented the cast of the 23rd James Bond adventure titled Skyfall.

The film, from Albert Broccoli’s Eon Productions, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios and Sony Pictures Entertainment, is directed by Sam Mendes and stars Daniel Craig, who returns for his third film as James Bond 007. The screenplay is written by Neal Purvis, Robert Wade and John Logan. Skyfall, which goes into production today, will begin its worldwide roll-out in the UK and Ireland on Oct. 26, 2012 and in North America on Nov. 9, 2012.

Joining Michael, Barbara and director Sam were cast members Daniel Craig, Javier Bardem, Dame Judi Dench, Naomie Harris and Bérénice Marlohe in the presentation. It was also announced the participation of Ralph Fiennes, Albert Finney and Ben Whishaw.

In Skyfall, Bond’s loyalty to M is tested as her past comes back to haunt her. As MI6 comes under attack, 007 must track down and destroy the threat, no matter how personal the cost.

“We’re so delighted to have Sam Mendes direct Skyfall and be working once again with Daniel Craig. We’ve a great script, an extraordinary cast and an incredibly talented creative team for the latest James Bond adventure,” said Wilson and Broccoli.

The director of Photography is Roger Deakins, who previously shot the films Jarhead and Revolutionary Road for Mendes. The production designer is Dennis Gassner, who designed Quantum of Solace and collaborated with Mendes in Road to Perdition and Jarhead. Editor is Stuart Baird, A.C.E., whose credits include Casino Royale. Jany Temime, whose works include the Harry Potter series, In Bruges and Children of Men, is the costume designer. Action specialist Alexander Witt is the second unit director. Gary Powell is stunt co-ordinator; Chris Corbould, SFX supervisor; and Steve Begg, visual effects supervisor, all of whom have worked on previous Bond films.

Skyfall is distributed by Columbia Pictures, local office of Sony Pictures Releasing International.