Back to the source...

Rating: 10/10 (22 November 2006)

Whatever criticisms can be made of the Bond film franchise, there's no faulting the source material. The books showcase a far more realistic and complex character, and it's this that makes a base for a great film. Add in some superb performances, especially from Daniel Craig, and you have something special. Craig's Bond is less predictable, more brutal and is overall more believable. He also performs a high percentage of his own stunts, which adds to the quality of the film, with a good lack of dodgy body doubles. It's also refreshing to watch a Bond film that has emphasis on good dialogue between the characters, as well as some great action set pieces. The film also does a good job of bringing the story into a modern setting (the book came out in 1953), and the locations are eye candy.
While this film is more realistic and more violent than previous Bond films, I was surprised by the humour shown at points throughout the film, which is far removed from the cheesy one-liners pedalled during the Moore/Brosnan eras.
Casino Royale should now be seen as the blueprint for future Bond films, with great characterisation and character development, and a far stronger and more believable plot. Not to mention great acting! Despite the changes made, the film still retains enough Bond standards for it to still BE Bond.
Roll on Bond 22!