Bo(r)nd Again!

Rating: 9/10 (10 November 2012)

2012 marks the 50th anniversary of 'Dr. No', the film which first marked the appearance of the iconic MI6 agent James Bond. Six actors and 23 films later, Bond still remains a cultural icon across the world and from Connery to Craig, almost every film has been a treat to watch.
So does Sam Mendes''Skyfall' fall in that category? Hell yes it does! And it successfully wipes our memory of the disappointing 'Quantum Of Solace' which I was sincerely hoping was not the last appearance of Bond due to MGM's troubles that followed.
The film begins with a thrilling chase sequence in Istanbul (which, I believe has been shot to death in action films this year after 'Taken 2' and 'Ek Tha Tiger') which involves Bond (Daniel Craig) and field agent Eve (Naomie Harris)in pursuit of a mercenary who has stolen a hard drive which contains the information on undercover MI6 agents. When an accident following a fight upon a train happens, Bond is presumed to be dead. Soon after, M (Dame Judi Dench) is politely asked to retire by the Intelligence Committee chairman, Gareth Mallory (Ralph Fiennes). However, M is forced to confront her past after an attack on the MI6 headquarters in London brings Bond back in action. What follows after is a roller coaster ride of a film,anything of which to be given away would be a crime.
Speaking of the cast, Daniel Craig and Judi Dench are top-notch and have possibly given their best shot at it as their respective characters. Naomie Harris and Ralph Fiennes do their jobs adequately. Another wonderful addition to the cast is Ben Whishaw, who portrays 'Q' in a rather different and an interesting way than what we have seen of the character in previous films. But the standout performer who steals (rather,sweeps!) the film away is Javier Bardem as the film's main antagonist, the cyberterrorist Silva. He is perfect in every scene, perfectly creepy, perfectly menacing, never under or overdoing anything. In fact, I'll go as far as to say that his performance is worthy of being mentioned in the same breath as Heath Ledger's Joker in 'The Dark Knight'.
Technically, this is a flawless film with every action sequence making it worth a re-watch. The score is astounding and Adele's 'Let the Sky Fall' from the opening credits sequence is very easy on the ears. Also, this one has possibly the best opening credits sequence in Bond history from a visual perspective.
But the film has it's flaws as well,minor, but flaws nevertheless. The final act is somewhat underwhelming and does not match the awesomeness of the first two. Fans of the Roger Moore/Sean Connery era may not like the film, because there aren't really many scenes involving quintessential Bond elements. However,Mendes does make sure to feature those along with presenting a gritty, realistic 007. This film is probably the first one to touch upon Bond's past and how he came to be. More importantly, it addresses the question 'Is James Bond relevant in today's age, or is he a relic of the past?' Find that out for yourself. Do NOT miss 'Skyfall'!