Quantum of Something

Rating: 6/10 (18 November 2008)

Still not sure exactly how the title fits in to the story, though there are a couple of throwaway lines that attempt to let us know, and if you've read the Fleming novels you already know.
It's worth seeing but don't go expecting the tight dialogue, depth of (intriquing) character development or tight story-line of Casino Royale. About all that the newest film has in common with the last one is Daniel Craig.
And Judi Dench, who is much more charismatic, solid and focused than any of the other characters. But I suspect that's due more to her as an actor. There was much opportunity to explore the dynamics and relationship of 007 and M but it got either dismissed or overlooked.
The characters are flat, the dialogue is watery and the story is convoluted. It's as though the film makers started out with one idea, got sidetracked with first one idea, then another and ended up waaaaay down the rabbit hole with no good way out. Alas, there are plenty of opportunities to hit the restroom, get a snack, see what else is playing in the theater . . .
Quantum resembles more the Pierce Brosnan Bond films - which I never thought were very good. Coming on the heels of Casino Royale this is a bit of a letdown.