Previous experience with Daniel Craig a plus

South Africa-born director Roger Michell may be coming on board to direct the next film in Columbia and MGM's James Bond franchise.

Echoing rumors that have been circulating in the online Bond communities for several weeks, The Hollywood Reporter noted on Monday (July 17) that Michell was in negotiations for "James Bond 22," the follow-up to "Casino Royale," which opens on Nov. 17.

"Casino Royale," directed by Martin Campbell, marks the first appearance by Daniel Craig as England's most lethal, yet martini-friendly spy.

While no writer has yet signed on for "James Bond 22," the project is believed to be based on an original idea by the franchise's veteran producer Michael Wilson.

Michell would certainly fit the established recent pedigree of Bond directors like Roger Spottiswoode ("Tomorrow Never Dies") and Michael Apted ("The World Is Not Enough") -- respected veterans who lack the clout (or desire) to put their own personal imprints on the franchise.

Thanks to "The Mother" and "Enduring Love," Michell has extensive experience with Craig, though he's certainly best known to mainstream audiences for bringing Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant together in "Notting Hill," a romantic comedy that took in more than $350 million worldwide. Michell also directed Samuel L. Jackson and Ben Affleck in the contemplative thriller "Changing Lanes."