'Skyfall' is Daniel Craig's third performance as 007; the most famous of all spies. It's also his best, after a solid introduction with 'Casino Royale' and the rather dissapointing 'Quantum of Solace', Craig finally comes into his own as James Bond. Under the direction of Sam Mendes the twenty-third Bond film belongs up there with 'Goldfinger', 'From Russia With Love' and 'On Her Majesty's Secret Service'.
This might sound like high praise but 'Skyfall' is pure quality. Mendes' character-driven approach breathes new life into a franchise which has known many up and downs. It also gives Craig the opportunity to portray Bond as a real person instead of the cartoony gentleman spy whom we've seen in many other installments.
The story also has weight to it. The whole thing revolves around M, whose actions as head of MI6 are called into question when the secret identities of spies all over the globe are stolen. Someone, somewhere, has it out for her. Meanwhile, 007 is presumed dead after a mission to recover the identies goes awry. He returns from the shadows in order to save M from being discharged by the British Prime-Minister and to hunt down the man behind this evil plot.
The villain, Raoul Silva, reveals himself to be an ex-MI6 agent with a grudge against M. He tries everything within his power to put an end to her career and, ultimately, her life. Javier Bardem plays Silva with a psychotic sense of humor. His twisted obsession with M is one of the film's high points and makes Bardem's antagonist truly memorable.
Aside from Craig and the entertaining villain this movie belongs entirely to Judi Dench. She's the ultimate Bond Girl and does a great job portraying a conflicted M. She's horrified at the lengths that Silva goes to in order to harm her but somehow she feels that she might deserve everything that's coming her way. This performance is yet another reason why 'Skyfall' manages to make a huge impact.
The action is also top notch. While 'Quantum of Solace' was made incromprehensible by the insane amount of shaky cam the action in this film is astounding. There's some spectacular scenes featuring some gorgeous cinematography. It might not be the absolute best Bond film but it's surely the most beautiful in the whole franchise.
As is tradition in the James Bond franchise 'Skyfall' has its own theme. This time Adele's voice is heard over the opening credits and it's an impressive song. It's been a while since we've heard a good theme for one of these movies. Adele manages to convey the gloomy feel of the film perfectly, setting the tone for the entire film.
If there's one thing I'm kind of divided on it's the obvious nods to previous Bond films. In celebration of Bond's 50th anniversary 'Skyfall' is sprinkled with little references. Some are fun; like the introduction of Ms. Moneypenny and Q, while others seem a bit too on the nose. The appearance of the Ashton Martin DB5 from 'Goldfinger', complete with all the gadgets from that film, is a little distracting. It's not enough to pull you out off the movie but it seems excessive.
As the movie ends and the credits begin to role the film assures us that Bond will be back. And I'm not complaining. With 'Skyfall' Daniel Craig has gotten the film that he deserves. He got to shine as the legendary British hero and fulfilled the promises he made with 'Casino Royale'. It's one of the most entertaining films of the year and one of the best Bond movies I've ever had the pleasure to experience.
Would have been a better movie had it not been tagged 007. Bond means guns, girls, gadgets nd more action. We do not need an emotional bond who takes everything personal and sometimes weeps and tries to end his life (Casino Royale). What's happening..we want the actual Bond back. The climax of the movie is the worst among the other parts, by the by what about the spies who were missing (discussed in the middle of the movie)? we want the actual Bond back.
ReplyDeleteThere's indeed a noticeable difference between what you refer to as 'the original Bond' and the character's latest incarnation. I'm all for the evolution of Bond as a character with depth.
ReplyDeletePrevious interpretations of 007 were entertaining, I'll give you that, but at the same time very hard to identify with. He was a character who never failed, never experienced any emotional or psychological trauma even though he's active in one of the most hazardous jobs in the world.
Audiences today seem to favor movies in which they can relate to the protagonists, and in some cases even the antagonists. In the James Bond series this aspect of the character was largely forgotten. Craig's Bond is far easier to feel and root for than, let's say, Roger Moore's.
Still, you have a valid opinion. Some people do prefer the classic Bond. But, even though I find those films highly enjoyable, I'm sold on Daniel Craig's take on 007.