A True Resurrection indeed (after the 'Quantum of Solace' debacle)

Rating: 8/10 (4 November 2012)

One of the best Bond films in the 50-year old franchise; it's a thrilling and gripping ride. Sam Mendes may have implemented a few key moments from his inspiration (Dark Knight Trilogy), but they work out for the best; the movie is smart, emotionally deep and thematically resonant. Mendes' love for character depth is clearly seen as he weaves such well-knit relationships and interactions among the characters.Roger Deakins' cinematography really stands out and adds to the storytelling.
Mendes' makes Silva one the most well-defined, scarred and intriguing Bond villains. With a different hairstyle and a different villainous character ('No Country for Old Men' being the other one), Javier Bardem plays the role with such alluring brilliance, it's impossible to take your eyes off him.
From 'Casino Royale' to 'Skyfall', Daniel Craig, with the help of his directors, has taken the character to it's third dimension. James Bond no longer looks like a playboy secret-agent solving missions with his cool gadgets, but there's a side of him which is emotionally-scarred, faithful and ruthless. Craig's cavalier attitude, and his comic timing are truly impeccable; he delivers his dialogues with such ease and charisma.
Ralph Fiennes seems like an appropriate addition to the 007 cast. Judi Dench's role as Madame M is remarkable as always. And this time, we get to see more of her due to the masterstroke idea of exploring the subtle, and usually overlooked, relationship between M and Bond. The Bond Series' resurrection, after the 'Quantum of Solace' debacle, can be well put in the verses recited by M from Tennyson's 'Ulysses': 'We are not now that strength which in old days Moved earth and heaven; that which we are, we are; One equal temper of heroic hearts, Made weak by time and fate, but strong in will To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield.'