Casino Royale

Rating: 9/10 (16 November 2006)

Hi.
Casino Royale has to be the best Bond produced during my lifetime. I've just seen it and it is truly awesome and a welcome throwback to some of the more "classic" Bond movies. CR has taken a step back from the Hollywood features of recent predecessors such as Tomorrow Never Dies, Die Another Day and The World is not Enough, there are less explosions, car chases and technologically unbelievable gadgetry. The essence of Bond is much better captured, lets face it, Die Another Day took it a step too far with the invisible car, and although it was good entertainment, it was unbelievable and the plot implausible. CR though, entertains on a completely different level. The whole espionage essence of Bond has been captured in a way not seen since much earlier Bond movies. Bond plots in recent times have literally -"lost the plot" so to speak and have become steadily less believable until its gotten to the point where Bond films have become all about the gadgets, explosions and action sequences. Perhaps this is due to the way the world is going? Money driven. Explosions, car chases, gadgets. Is this what the target market wants from a Bond film? This point is epitomised by the length of the "car-chase" in CR. It lasts mere seconds in comparison to previous films where car-chases are drawn out over 5minute periods. I've got nothing against that though, Bond action sequences are always well done and I'll be the first to admit that seeing Brosnan escape a tidal wave on a "surf-board" was awesome. However, looking back across the Bond movies you can see that action sequences in the more "classic" Bond films haven't played such a central role to the films appeal and success. Personally I am delighted that older Bond values and style has been restored. The movie for me was particularly enjoyable because of the obvious and very visual transition we see Bond make from being an inexperienced and overly reckless double-0 to the ruthless, efficient hero we've come to adore. This is evident even in Bond's dialogue and habits. During the film he introduces himself as "James Bond", and it's not until the closing scene that he develops the "Bond, James Bond" approach. Also in a poker scene he orders a drink that is clearly not a Vodka Martini, before switching to the traditional Vodka Martini in a later scene.
The plot of CR is nicely worked and weaves across the globe from Africa to America to Europe. The parkour scene toward the start of the film is particularly impressive. The film is well done and doesn't rush scenes or draw them out too often.
As for Daniel Craig, I have no criticisms to make. I think he handled the pressure and expectations of the role and admirably and has produced a very good performance. He is the best Bond since Connery in my opinion. As good as Connery in some ways and better than in others. If he goes on to make as many films as Connery than he could become a genuine contender for title of "best Bond". Overall it really is a great Bond film and easily in my top 3.
Thanks. rusty