A Refined, Refreshing Film

Rating: 8/10 (10 November 2012)

When I sat down a few hours ago to watch the latest Bond adaptation, I really had no idea what to expect. Casino Royale was a great film that redefined the franchise, while Quantum of Solace seemed to take a huge step backward. To be honest, while I was hoping for the best, I really was expecting the worst, especially since the previews really made it look like a carbon copy of the last one.
Not surprisingly, Skyfall opens very much like the previous two; we are thrust directly into the action. If you've ever watched a Bond movie, you've seen the first twenty minutes of Skyfall. Chase scene, explosions, shattered glass, yeah, you get it.
Here's the good news; the first twenty minutes are easily the film's worst moments. After that, we are quickly ushered into something much more refreshing. The story, while predictable at times, is quite engaging, and the film looks absolutely beautiful. There are some scenes of the Shanghai skyline that are incredible, and the prolonged sequences that follow make for a visually pleasing experience.
As for the acting, Daniel Craig is really strong here. In fact, there isn't a single piece out of place. Ralph Fiennes and Javier Bardem are both fantastic, and I also quite enjoyed the new Quartermaster.
All in all, this is a great film. Seriously, it's quite different from the other Bond movies and I can virtually guarantee you won't be disappointed.
RATING: 7.5/10