James Bond distribution deal agreed with Sony Pictures

Daniel Craig will return as James Bond in the as yet untitled new film

The next Bond movie will be distributed by Sony Pictures, the studio that put out the last two 007 films.

Sony will co-finance and distribute the 23rd Bond film - directed by Sam Mendes and due for release on 9 November 2012 - after striking a deal with MGM.

In January it was confirmed Daniel Craig - star of 2006's Casino Royale and 2008's Quantum of Solace - would return in the as yet untitled new film.

The franchise had been on hold because of MGM's financial troubles.

The studio, which will retain distribution rights in some overseas territories, has since emerged from bankruptcy under new ownership.

Casino Royale made $594m (£364m) at the international box office, while Quantum of Solace took $586m (£359m).