Wow! This is more like it!

Rating: 9/10 (17 November 2006)

How quickly the seesaw became a long slide. "Dr. No" started the Bond films at a high level, especially for its day (1962). "From Russia with Love" (1963) added class, new sophistication and nastier villains. "Goldfinger" (1964), to me at least, proved to be the pivot point. Sean Connery remained the quintessential James Bond for three more "official" films but the offerings seemed to be coasting. From there until 2006, the Bond franchise offered mediocre to poor sustenance, mired as they were in silly gadgets, poor casting, awkward writing and "connect the dots"-directing.
Now, finally, "Casino Royale" picks up where "Goldfinger" left off and raises the bar again. Daniel Craig is the perfect choice for James Bond. His 007 is unpredictable, complex, brutal and sadistic, even at times, gentle. Mr. Craig, like Connery, is a talented, estimable actor.
The film's action sequences can leave a viewer gasping for air right along with the protagonists. The script goes full throttle then eases up just in time then ramps up again. Even watching the poker players and their supporters has its own excitement. Nothing seems artificial. The sets and locations are imaginative without being obtrusive (wow! there isn't a space ship in sight!). The score isn't up with the best Bond films but that doesn't detract from the movie.
In addition to Daniel Craig, the cast is top-notch, from Dame Judi Dench to Eva Green to Jeffrey Wright to the assorted villains. All are playing at the top of their game.
Now that "Casino Royale" is in the theaters, the producers know what elements can work for the continued success of "James Bond". Let's hope they don't squander a delicious re-start.