Fantastic, Thrilling and Captivating

Rating: 10/10 (27 April 2018)

Firstly, opening sequence picking right from where Casino Royale ended. Incredible car chase. Stunningly filmed. Puts a massive smile on your face. And a set grimace on Bond's, which is carried through the movie. Put into perspective, Casino Royale started the franchise over. Fresh start with a fresh faced Bond, new to the 00 business. This one puts him right where he should be; rose coloured lenses smashed, and trying to sort his head out in this world of agents, double agents, being used, and using people. Takes a hard soul to survive, and Daniel Craig is excellent, taking us on a journey where we see Bond trying to get comfortable in his skin. If us as an audience are left uncomfortable, good. This is how we are supposed to feel, empathising with a character who inhabits a nightmarish world, but must come out as the hero. Which he does, closing the circle of guilt left through Vesper's death, and leaving the path clear for Skyfall. This movie is like Empire in Star Wars, a dark mid chapter which is needed in order to develop characters and lead to a resolution only to be delivered by the next movie. Seen on its own, it can feel out of place; but as part of the 007 cannon, a great foundation from which all further stories will grow and develop. Enjoy it.