Elegant and Dramatic Turn of Events

Rating: 9/10 (8 November 2015)

It's hard to dislike any of the entries that have Daniel Craig, the man with the rugged look and damaged psyche but who is able to wear and execute the necessary outfits, tasks, and gadgets of the 007 program. It's this program that is in danger of disappearing. It feels at times as if this is the conclusion of the entire series. Where does it go? It has explored outer space, underwater, and just about every exotic land in the world, but now it has all come together, and Mr. Bond has a long list of scores to settle with some ghosts of his past (hinted at in "Skyfall").
We have a new "M", and it's not easy getting used to the new Moneypennies and Q's, but they're capable and likable, and we will grow used to them because they have been modernized and given a bit more room than the classic roles they're based on. Moneypenny goes goes beyond flirting into breaking the rules for her "boss". Q is definitely more expressive and as frustrated as ever when Bond can't seem to understand the proper administration of the new toys.
In this chapter, Bond is again going rogue and trying to save the world and heal his soul as he puts together the various elements of what led him to become 007. He might not like what he'll find. However, we are certain to have a ball as he demolishes entire blocks and buildings in several parts of the world. We don't have jets, but helicopters come alive and do very well here. The segment in Mexico City certainly is a lot of fun, though those crowds were a little unaware of the show in the sky.
Bond proves in this chapter that he has a big heart, and that he is beginning to show his vulnerabilities. He the knight who comes to conquer and save the damsels in distress, though he's reminded by his long lost "brother" that he does leave a trail of broken hearts and destruction wherever he goes.
I enjoyed how this film is a bit on the old-fashioned side, giving us car chases, fist fights, and a bit of technology without drowning us in techno babble or going crazy with the effects. There is more time for drama, and points are made very clear as to who is who and where they come from. The relationships between the main heroes/heroines and enemies is quite fascinating, enough to send all of them into some serious therapy.
Tribute is paid to a lot of what has made Bond such an icon, from the gorgeous long-hair feline, to the classic Astin Martin, to some of the gorgeous ladies who participate in the many adventures of our hero. Belucci represents the classic beauty, and we have the new generation who is able to use a gun and dress with plenty of style. We get that overgrown terrifying killer who appears unstoppable and will present Bond with one of his biggest challenges.
All in all, the film is a lot of fun, a bit long, but never boring.