The Best Bond Film Alongside Skyfall

Rating: 9/10 (11 November 2015)

The latest take on the famous British spy James Bond has been pretty worthwhile the last few years, starting with the great reboot 'Casino Royale', the average 'Quantum of Solace' and the best and my personal favourite 'Skyfall' which features the best plot, nods to the original and realistic action. The latest offering Spectre is as dazzling and exciting as its promotional material shows and surprisingly it brings the whole reboot take into a full circle as more of the classic Bond elements from the Sean Connery to the Roger Moore takes, brings the famous franchise for a new generation of fans while giving the much older fans a sense of appreciation and respect.
I won't give a synopsis on plot as Jay has that covered in his view, but in all honesty I thought the plot was indeed entertaining and gripping throughout. It still follows Bond in his grips to do right for his life and lead him where he was meant to be, but his path crosses with an organization called 'Spectre' which holds a sinister plan and brings not only Bond to a surprising truth about his life but the past events (Casino Royale, Quantum of Solace and Skyfall) were conducted by the one organization.
In terms of performances, the cast really nailed their roles but I tip my hat to Daniel Craig, Christoph Waltz and the lovely Léa Seydoux who give the best moments for the film's character. Though Jay says that Craig doesn't look as convincing or really wanting to be in the film, I didn't take as much notice and believed that Craig was simply doing his best, but maybe wanted to retire from the role as he may not want to be type casted in the genre. Dave Bauista was pretty well tense on screen, with only one line and plenty of muscle he establishes himself as the new 'Jaws' for the latest Bond generation. The nods and connections from the previous reboot films and the original films are so much alive in this film, it gives me hope that the future of Bond may truly be back in form.
The action set-pieces here are pretty much over the top and fun, but try to keep close to the already established action formula as seen in the last 3 films. From shoot-outs, fights on a helicopter and trains, chases and destruction, the film carries a fun spy-action spectacle that audiences know and love, the opening sequence alone was truly the best film openings for any Bond film ever.I know it's far too early to tell or even predict but I think Spectre will indeed earn some award nominations for technical achievements; to provide why it's cinematography, sound editing, mixing, music score and title song are all above great. Sam Smith's vocals for 'Writings On The Wall' may not suit to everyone's tastes but the track does help to set the tone for the story and it's character within.
Overall, Spectre was worth the hype and time to watch. It's just neck to neck with Skyfall in terms of the better value and quality but I can admit that Spectre brings a lot more in terms of nods to the previous films, character and action. I'm going to give it a 9/10 rating and it earns a spot on my top 10 films for this year.