Bond At His Best

Review: Skyfall

Let me get right to the point; Skyfall is an awesome movie. It is as simple as that. Exciting, interesting, and visually stunning, the 23rd James Bond film is an instant classic in the 007 franchise.

The film follows Bond as he attempts to track down a madman with a mysterious connection to M's past.

In terms of plot, it is this relationship with M which truly sets Skyfall apart as more than a typical Bond film. Such a tactic makes the story more intimate and therefore more engaging than a worn-out threat of nuclear war or something else of that sort.

The action sets are exhillirating; from the tops of trains to rooms of reflecting glass to a long forgotten house from the past, each sequence is edge-of-your seat fun.

Daniel Craig (Layer Cake) has not only solidified his status as an iconic Bond, but in my opinion, is the best 007 since Sean Connery (Goldfinger). It's a more grounded and realistic interpretation of the hero, but Craig is still the smooth ladies-man and classy gentleman that makes Bond the hero of guys everywhere.

As the villain, Javier Bardem (No Country for Old Men) puts his Academy Award-winning acting talents on display as Silva, the mystery figure from M's past. He's not the most memorable Bond antagonist ever, but it is a strong performance nonetheless.

Oscar-winner Judi Dench (Shakespeare in Love) as M is a delight, as always, and will continue to be one of the most beloved actors in 007 history. As for the other Bond girls, newcomer Bérénice Marlohe is a more forgettable contributor, while Naomie Harris (Pirates of the Caribbean 2 & 3) is playfully fun and easily wins over fans who will look forward to her presence in future franchise outings.

Skyfall accomplishes the near-miracle of being an incredibly strong and fitting tribute to the history of 007 as the series celebrates its 50th year, but also establishing a strong foundation for future entries. In other words, the old is now new!

If you are a Bond enthusiast, you're going to absolutely love all the throwbacks in the film. And if you're not as familiar with the world's most famous spy, Skyfall (particularly when coupled with a viewing of 2006's Casino Royale) is a great (re)introduction to some of the famous hallmarks of the franchise. The (re)introduction of Q, this time played by a witty Ben Whishaw (Cloud Atlas), and the character portrayed by Ralph Fiennes (Schindler's List) exemplify this transitional tone.

Director Sam Mendes (American Beauty) has surpassed all expectations, creating an adrenaline pumping action film, that can also boast a enrapturing palette of visual delights. The cinematography alone in Skyfall is an outstanding achievement. The way some scenes are filmed is just plain cool.

Like Mission Impossible 4 last year, Skyfall is not only the can't-miss espionage action film of the year, but one of the overall best films of the year. And I'm still thinking about it, but I think it may be the best Bond film ever. Yep, I just went there. The point is, Skyfall is great; the type of film you want to watch again and again.

The Final Word: Go buy a ticket.