Finally the pieces are fitting together

Rating: 9/10 (10 November 2012)

As a fair warning, I discuss crucial plot points, and reading can ruin some of the movies amazing qualities. I suggest if you plan to see this film, stop reading reviews and see it. It's a great movie and it's worth seeing. Then come back and read my review and lets discuss it.
As a huge fan of James Bond, owning every VHS tape, I could barely keep from humming the iconic James Bond theme song all day waiting for my movie show time to come; and I was not disappointed!
Although, my personal feelings toward the film, it wasn't an amazing movie. V for Vendetta was amazing. Forrest Gump was amazing. But the things in this film, made the last several with Craig seem that much more special all leading to this one.
This film seemed so much more like a James Bond movie than the rest of Craig's, and I believe it to be completely intentional. He had finally said Bond, James Bond. The catchy bond music is finally apparent throughout the film. And he finally is not hesitant to ask for his Martini shaken not stirred while at a Casino. The past few movies had one objective, to give the character depth and back story, not to prematurely give us an international super spy, but to hint at it until both us and Bond was ready.
It's what happens at the end where it all makes sense. (again, if you haven't seen this, STOP READING already, and see it). After M's death, the series goes full circle and lands probably some time before Dr. No; which is, to me, a strange paradox. Judi Dench is M in the chronologically future bond movies with Brosnan. Then starting over with Craig in Casino Royale. She then dies before Dr. No which is when they hire the new male M, the replacement to the one you might remember from the earlier Bonds. I know it's a movie, but it's kind of funny to think about.
The moment he steps into the new office with Moneypenny, it's finally very clear on their intentions with this series of Bond. I believe the direction they are taking is a series of Bond movies that are more tied together as a narrative unlike the older bonds which is more episodic.
I love this new Bond series. It's been a great ride, and from what I've heard, we may have many more to look forward to. Like it? Hate it? email me, I'd love to discuss. ryanhartford86@yahoo.com