Finally: a Bond true to the books

Rating: 10/10 (22 November 2006)

Ever since I began reading the Bond books a couple of years ago I've been pining after a film that would accurately reflect Ian Fleming's cold-hearted, faintly psychotic spy, and finally this has been delivered by "Casino Royale". Although it bears some of the hallmarks of previous Bond adventures, this really does feel like a fresh start, with a much more serious tone and a much more cynical view.
I won't discuss the plot, as I don't want to give away any spoilers, but suffice to say it's very gripping and suspenseful, and includes most of the events that occur in the book. The Director Martin Campbell has produced a film every bit as good as his first Bond revival, "GoldenEye", even though he adapts his style to the new kind of story on display here. The action sequences are astonishing, and benefit from being 'real' rather than the CGI tosh from "Die Another Day".
Much has been written about Daniel Craig, so all I will say is that he is excellent in the role, and really develops the character throughout the film. I will however say that I thought the best performance came from Eva Green, who is simply sublime as Vesper Lynd, and brings great depth to her character. This is the first time I can remember being moved by a Bond film, and a lot of that really is down to the efforts of the actors.
So, to sum up: go see. Probably the best mainstream film I've seen all year, and the best Bond for a long time... perhaps ever?