Skyfall

Skyfall (2012)

Directed by Sam Mendes

Starring: Daniel Craig, Javier Bardem, Naomie Harris, Judi Dench, Ralph Fiennes

James Bond has been at it for 50 years. From Sean Connery, Roger Moore, David Niven, George Lazenby, Roger Moore, Chris Cazenove, Timothy Dalton, and Pierce Brosnan have all put on the suit and been part of the legacy. Most recently, Daniel Craig has taken on the role for Casino Royale and Quantum of Solace. Now, in his third Bond film, Craig firmly cements himself into the history of Bond with Skyfall. In addition to Craig, the movie is full of talent. Oscar Winners Javier Bardem and Judi Dench, and Oscar nominees Albert Finney and Ralph Fiennes are also part of this interesting cast.

When M’s (Dench) past comes back to haunt her, it’s up to 007 (Craig) to save MI6. First Bond has to overcome the distrust that has surfaced between M and himself. This could be a huge obstacle as he prepares to take on a technological genius (Bardem) who’s using his skills to terrorize the world. Through exotic locations and risky missions Bond seeks to destroy the threats to his country and his boss.

This is a great addition to the Bond legacy. Daniel Craig started out as Bond amidst a wave of controversy over the decision to cast him. With this film I hope no one has any doubts about his qualifications. His performance is more emotionally driven than I expected from a Bond film. He’s also surrounded by some great actors who bring out the depth of emotion written into the story.

Between Bardem, Dench, and Fiennes this movie is full of familiar faces. These three actors helped to bring this story the strength it needed to avoid becoming cheesy or comical. This isn’t to say that the movie doesn’t have it’s “yeah right!” moments, but that the action and adventure seem well blended into a serious story. In addition to the familiar faces, this movie also features some less familiar names like Naomie Harris and Bérénice Marlohe. These two beautiful women are now part of the history of sexy women to be a part of almost every Bond film ever made.

Throughout the years I’ve been watching Bond films this one ranks up there among the best. My other favorites includeGoldenEye (1964), Goldfinger (1995), and Live and Let Die (1973). This movie seems to follow the formula that each of the Bond movies is known for. The villain, Javier Bardem, is eccentric and really kind of weird. This movie really took this towards the eccentric side more than the last few. I was excited to see his name when the film was announced, and I think it was a good decision. His acting really added another layer to the film.

This movie is a great addition to the Bond legacy. If you’re a fan of the franchise this is a must-see. I am glad to see Craig as 007 again, and it looks like this may not be his last. I’d also recommend this for first-time Bond viewers. It’s a good look at what the Bond movies are all about. I give this one 4.5 out of 5.

Like all good Bond movies, this one has an incredible song to go along with it. Here’s Adele singing Skyfall from the opening credits.

Rating: PG-13

Running Time: 143 minutes