Decent, lacking something in plot.

Rating: 7/10 (31 October 2008)

This is a decent, if not spectacular Bond film which is subject to some incredible stunts and action sequences but falls short in the plot department. A big problem is that it doesn't build the story gradually to a thrilling climax. It basically follows the structure of a bit of chat followed by an action sequence and then some dialogue again. This can be a tad laborious at times , clearly a film designed so that one can demonstrate their home cinema. Rather than Bond saving the world as is the tradition, this is a revenge story. It succeeds to an extent but doesn't quite satisfy as a Bond film. One can't help but think it is just a filler between Casino Royale and the more traditional type of Bond.
All of this being said, the film is quite entertaining hence the high score. The action sequences are well choreographed although the hand-held "Bourne style" camera-work is tough to follow at times. The Bond girls are cool and do actually have a personality, particularly Gemma Arterton's character. Daniel Craig is a fine actor, his physical presence speaks louder than his words. Also worth nothing, in more emotional scenes he is subtle where he could over do-it; this makes the empathy with him stronger.
I could go on further but I just wanted to give reader's a short overview. I give this film 6.5 out of 10. Rounding up to 7 because I'm a Bond fan. Not bad.