It should surprise absolutely no one that Christopher Nolan is a James Bond fan, just as it should surprise no one that he keeps getting asked about directing a Bond movie. I’m not a film scholar and have no interest in pretending to dissect every technical decision behind the camera, but I do know what resonates with me as a lifelong Bond fan.

So when one of the most respected filmmakers working today speaks thoughtfully about the series, it feels like another reminder of Bond’s lasting place in cinema. The fact that Nolan distinguishes between his favorite Bond film and his favorite Bond actor also suggests an appreciation that goes beyond casual fandom. Choosing On Her Majesty’s Secret Service as his favorite Bond movie (he said the alpine scene in Tenet was partially inspired by it, so that tracks) and Timothy Dalton as his favorite Bond actor is the kind of combination that strikes a chord with even the most diehard James Bond fan.

As a self-professed fan of the Fast & Furious franchise as well, Nolan doesn’t seem like a snobby movie guy. And he’s definitely not a casual 007 fan!