New and Improved Bond

Rating: Null/10 (31 December 2006)

Whether you're a Bond fan or not, this movie delivers on both the action scenes and storyline. Gone is the brainless action and gadget-fest. In its place is a rugged, sophisticated and vulnerable character that audiences can relate to.
Basically, the story involves a 'bad guy' who organizes a high-stakes poker match (a game at which he excels) to acquire funds he lost through failed financial speculation. It is also the story of Bond transitioning into his "007" status - so it is where he begins.
It may sound a little dull, but don't be fooled - it's got plenty of action, suspense, and time to develop a liking for the character of Bond.
Some aspects of Bond are updated in accord with the times - for instance, gone are sexual references to females in the opening credits. Although there is still the male magnetism that Bond 'exudes', it seems less over-the-top than in previous movies.
All-in-all, it is a darker and more reflective / sophisticated character that we see and it is an improvement. This is a fine movie for both Bond fans and first-timers.