A Pretty Good Bond Film, though strayed from the formula somewhat

Rating: 10/10 (19 November 2006)

As the film passed in the first (roughly) 20 minutes, I was indecisive over whether I liked it, and if it fitted into the Bond family. But, when the film finished, I think it does. However, rather than being a brother to the other Bond films, its more of an estranged cousin. The idea of rebooting the series was confusing to many of the "casual" bond fans, and it strayed quite a bit from the familiarity that is adored by Bond fans. M seemed quite out of character compared to her previous interpretation (the heightened use of "what the hell", e.g. what the hell is going- as well as M actually swearing! lowering the tone a bit), and not a Moneypenny or Q in sight. Very different, and I think you could link it more with the other slightly "outsider" Bond films, such as "On Her Majesty's Secret Service" and "Licence To Kill". Like these, its odd and, like OHMSS, he falls in love- a fatal mistake and, like LTK, he seems more inclined to rebel against the rules and offers his resignation, like LTK.
It was a shame that they didn't include the traditional gun-barrel sequence for the opening, though the black and white was original. The credit sequence was odd, but modern (no silhouettes of women?!?). Couldn't fault the action, more realism than its predecessor, Die Another Day. However, it was as "villainous" as some of the more classic Bond films, in that Le Chiffre, though unique in his poker abilities and bleeding eye, he hasn't exactly got great charisma or a sparkling personality. And, seemingly, gone are the days when you had a good henchman like Oddjob and Jaws. Couldn't fault the locations, other than you could get a bit lost from time to time, and the plot could be confusing at times. The dialogue seemed a bit muffled in my opinion, causing me to miss some points. A very action-packed, serious (on the whole) and more emotive Bond film, with a lot less jokes and gadgets (causing it to lose some of its Bondian appeal in my opinion). Very dramatic too, with Bond dieing from poison, as well as getting thrashing in the balls with a knotted rope. Very wincing moment for the men in the audience! As for Craig, well the website craignotbond.com should close immediately. He looked the part to me, his acting was excellent, and maintained the level of emotion that was needed for this unique Bond story. Couldn't fault him in my opinion. Vesper was very good also, Le Chiffre was well acted- but could have be given more depth. But a pretty good Bond film, and look forward to the next instalment. Next time round, we should be having the Bond we're more accustomed to seeing, hardened up more, a hopefully have a some more jokes, another gadget or two perhaps, and definitely the inclusion of Moneypenny and Q again! They're part of what makes Bond "Bond" as well!