Brilliant!

Rating: 9/10 (26 November 2006)

I thought the new Bond looked bad at first - but it has well and truly proved me wrong. Though the acting is good but not special, the film is packed to the brim with intense stylized action scenes, high-tech gadgets and gripping chases. The reason why this is far better than Die Another Day is because it is made on a substantially smaller scale, and is far more gripping, dangerous, well-written and universally enjoyable. Bond is well and truly back - the casino scenes were hugely well-done - they showed an almost expert knowledge of poker and gambling and really left your heart in your mouth. The best scenes in this film - Bond dices with death in the casino, a whole building sinks into a river (in a city which is quite a homage to Moonraker) and Bond engages with a thrilling chase which takes us high above the ground in metal cranes. Casino Royale is more than just action mania - it is a gripping addition to Bond's legacy and one that finally brings Bond into the 21st century in a worthy way.
The new Bond is very long - but I like longer films. Younger kids will certainly get a fright, but this film is far more unpredictable and well-done than Die Another Day - my only slight flaw is that it became quite hard to piece together by the end. Despite being humiliated by Happy Feet at the box office, Casino Royale is certainly one that will be a smash hit this Winter. Bravo! 9/10