Refreshing yet nostalgic...Bond returns

Rating: 9/10 (1 November 2012)

A fantastic addition to the Bond franchise, Skyfall combines fresh storytelling and some classic bond moments to create one of the best Bond films to date.
The villain, Silva, will surely become one of Bonds more memorable enemies and the action set pieces themselves are impressive yet somewhat understated compared to previous films. However the star of Skyfall is not Daniel Craig but Judi Dench, who has more to do in this film than in her previous six outings as the British Bulldog that is 'M'.
And it is that word 'British' which really defines this particular film, as much of the story takes place back home, which has often been missing from other films in the franchise. Some may miss the exotic locations but visits to Istanbul and Shanghai in the first hour of the film is enough to satisfy these needs.
Overall this is a very solid bond film with much more character development providing a more mature and rich story. Many have suggested strong Nolan/Dark Knight links which are sound observations, but this is still a Bond film through and through and Bond fans will enjoy the nods to previous films which occur throughout Skyfall. Thoroughly enjoyable.