A darker, grittier, Bond..

Rating: 9/10 (26 November 2006)

The last time we saw Bond was in the abysmal "The World Is Not Enough and the campy, CGI-loaded dreck that was "Die Another Day". The worst offense to me was being paired up with Denise Richards, who, in laments terms, a horrible actress to boot. As a life long fan caught in a love/hate relationship with Bond, I eagerly awaited this latest film. I felt in my heart that I would be riveted again, but feared I would be disappointed again, given the direction the franchise has taken in recent years. However, I am happy to report that my expectations have been more than met.
This is hands down, the BEST Bond film that I have seen in years. Gone is the campy/cartoonish, flamboyant tone from previous films. The plot is more realistic and exciting. I like the fact that the film uses real locations and practical effects (which is a lost art, especially in today's films)rather than CGI, which unfortunately is becoming common place now in action movies (xXx: State of the Union is one example). The action scenes are more brutal and coherent. The technology is great without the silly OTT gadgets, making this film work by today's standards. Bond is more a cold-blooded efficient killer than past Bonds, played exquisitely by Daniel Craig. Craig has certainly cemented the role, even more so than say... Pierce Brosnan. Goldenye and Tomorrow Never Dies were good films, but were cartoony and over the top. I suspect that this is the main reason why Brosnan left the franchise.
Martin Campbell has done a great job. He not only gives the film class and gravitas, but a strong foundation, something that the previous films have been severely lacking. He reinvigorates the character in a way that Christopher Nolan has done with the smash-hit Batman Begins. The decision to base the character in reality was certainly a stroke of genius and in the case of Bond, it shows. What's also refreshing is that we finally see Bond face real villains not the comic-book style caricatures that were so prevalent in the series. And the dialog that they deliver is menacing, not campy.
Some might say that the plot is a little off in spots, but I say that it is the best in the series as it presents a dark and gritty atmosphere that's believable. Bond is lethal, ruthless, cold and doesn't play second fiddle to the bad guys; a far cry from Brosnan who was a bit of a softie. The only negative I can think of is Eva Green. Her performance wasn't bad, but I think they've could have gotten someone more exotic and sexy and better suited as Bond's love interest.
Casino Royal is the best Bond movie of the series and the best movie of the year. Fans of Dr. No and For Your Eyes only will truly appreciate this film. Not only is it the best in the series, but its the most unconventional. And the ending (Craig saying the famous catch-phrase) leaves an open door for a sequel. Go see it!! See it again and be "Shaken, not Stirred".