A step down to the James Bond franchise

Rating: 6/10 (15 March 2016)

The iconic British spy James Bond has been labeled a cinematic icon in Hollywood for over five decades since his on screen in 1962 film 'Dr.No' which had Sean Connery pinned to the role. From there on, the James Bond franchise has managed to impress audiences everywhere with spectacular action sequences, visceral storytelling, and the charismatic energy from the beloved spy. But it wasn't until Daniel Craig's debut in the franchise with the 2006 smash hit 'Casino Royale' when the series really started take flight. This follow up of the 2012 hit 'Skyfall' however, has some of the entertaining spirit of the titular character, but perhaps not the best of him I've seen in years. With Sam amended returning to the director's chair, this follows Agent Bond (played by Daniel Craig) who comes across a cryptic message from his late leader, which leads him to discovering from Lucia Sciarra (played by Monica Bellucci), a widow of an old criminal a deadly organization known as Spectre. With the help of a blonde hotshot Madeleine Swann (played by Lea Seydoux) who Spectre is set out to kill, Bond comes face to face with the organization's leader Oberhauser (played by Christoph Waltz) who he learns has a mysterious relationship with.
This movie brings just about everything Bond fans should expect, tense action sequences, a powerful villain, a romance between Bond and a beautiful woman, and of course, a thoughtful storyline. This is not to say that this one stands as entertaining as the previous films, there are some cherishable value from the previous films that are sadly abandoned from here. The plot is the main aspect to gain this spotlight. While the plot begins with a stunning premise and introducing some compelling story elements, it begins to lose its touch after the first hour. It becomes less exciting and develops such as slow pacing. Along the way though is when we meet Lea Seydoux's character who Jamea Bond develops a strong romantic relationship with, and the chemistry between the two works surprisingly well. The performances stand out effectively and the characters remain likable throughout the picture. The biggest surprise director Sam Mendes brings the picture though, is the ingenious casting of Christoph Waltz as the main villain. Considering the profounding performance he brought to the 2009 film 'Inglourious Basterds', Waltz fits astonishingly well in the villainous role. He brings such visceral energy and charismatic tension to the character, easily one of the best villains brought to life in the Bond franchise. On top of it all, the film still manages to deliver excitement from spectacular action sequences, especially with the intense, pulse-pounding helicopter fight in Mexico City during the opening scene. Complete with amazing stunt work and cinematography, these scenes provide the energy and tension to keep viewers glued to their seats.
Spectre is a bit of a step down to the Bond franchise and falls below the level of the previous Bond entries. Nonetheless, it still at least brings some of the James Bond spirit to the screen and thus, has just enough elements to make this installment worth watching. This film is in no means the worst film of the series, and it is far from it. If you are not a James Bond however, there are good chances you may not appreciate this one. Otherwise, this one is worth a try.