 The producers briefly considered approaching Sean Connery to play the role in a nod to the 50th anniversary of the series, but decided not to as they felt Connery's presence would have been seen as stunt casting and might disengage the audience.Mendes first signed on to direct the project shortly after "Quantum of Solace" was released, and remained as a consultant during the uncertainty surrounding MGM's financial situation.Mendes, who had previously worked with Craig on "Road to Perdition", was approached after seeing Craig in a "A Steady Rain", meeting after a performance, where Craig broached the subject of directing a "Bond" film for the first time.