This Bond film is a fine entry into the long running and well-loved series

Rating: 7/10 (20 November 2006)

James Bond (Daniel Craig) has just completed the arduous journey to 00 spy status. An employee of the British government, his assignments will be the most difficult and important cases imaginable from this time forward. As he is investigating an African warlord's money connections, he ends up, unhappily, as front page news when the case takes a slightly wrong turn. Nevertheless, his investigations propel him to follow a corrupt money manager named Le Chiffre, whose clients are the most unsavory and dangerous in the world. From the Bahamas, to the Czech Republic, and to Montenegro, Bond is out to get his man. He even risks a great deal on a high stakes card game in one of the most plush casinos on the face of the earth. Naturally, beautiful women cross his path as well. Will Bond end up victorious on his first months on the job? This is an exciting movie with the highest of production values. Craig is splendid as the newest Bond, sure to please male and female movie goers alike, with his cool but charming demeanor. The other cast members, including Judy Dench, are very well chosen and significant. As for the scenery, it is, quite simply, to die for. Even if you wish to hide your eyes when the fighting begins, you will love the quick but gorgeous trip around the globe. To everyone's joy, too, the stunts are imaginative and intricate enough to please the longtime Bond fans everywhere. In short, shake or stir yourself out of your easychair, hop in the auto, and buy your ticket soon, very soon. Even those who have never seen a Bond film will take to the movie like a long standing aficionado.