The first James Bond film premiered over 50 years ago, in 1962. There have been six actors who have played the character since then, starting with Sean Connery in “Dr. No.” and now with Daniel Craig in “Skyfall.” Through all this time, the franchise has somehow managed to stay fresh, still attracting audiences and making box office records. Though some of the films are not much more than popcorn-movies, containing few merits or value other than enjoyable action sequences; there are always the exceptional films to make up for it. Already nominated for five Academy Awards, “Skyfall” has proven that the series is not coming to an end anytime soon.
The average Bond film has a specific pattern to it: a plan hatched by an evil genius, who attempts to cause world-wide destruction; and a womanizing, charming, seemingly invincible super-spy who has been assigned the task of stopping him. Though “Skyfall” still has your evil genius named Raoul Silva (Javier Bardem), the Bond girls (Naomie Harris) and (Berenice Marlohe), and an ill-conceived plot meant to do harm; the damage sought is much more local. Javier Bardem is an ex-MI6 agent, who had been fired by M (Judi Dench) several years back. As retribution against her betrayal, he seeks revenge on M and on the MI6 agency in general. And so it is, of course, up to James Bond to stop him.
A sort of poetic appeal exists within the visuals and cinematography of “Skyfall.” Much of the credit here is due to the director Sam Mendes, known for creating lavish visuals in his movies, such as with his previous success “American Beauty.” An action sequence in “Skyfall,” such as the adrenaline-pumping opening chase scene, is so well-orchestrated; every camera shot is like looking at the individual pieces of a finely tuned instrument. Yet, the action never overpowers the plot, nor does it dull down the emotional appeal and humorous qualities of the film. Like James Bond himself, “Skyfall” has a sort of charm to it; hard not to like as long as you’re paying attention.
The Daniel Craig Bond films have taken the character in a different direction from previous portrayals. They have made him into a much more believable, sympathetic human being. In earlier films, James Bond could match any army; never getting shot or hurt, and always managing to escape even the most dire of circumstances. He was flat, emotionless, handsome, yet ultimately lifeless. But, in “Skyfall,” Craig’s Bond is as flawed as any average person (though somehow managing to make even his bad moments seem cool). He falls in love. He gets hurt. He fails and nearly gives up. It is easier to feel sympathy for a character that is prone to failure, just the same as everyone else. Craig has proven, once again, why he deserves to be one of the chosen few to play James Bond over the years. And he creates, perhaps, the most likable version of the character.
“Skyfall” contains an exceptional cast, complete with Academy Award winners Javier Bardem and Judi Dench; Academy Award nominee Ralph Fiennes; and newcomers Berenice Marlohe and Naomie Harris as Bond girls. It is hard to imagine any different casting choices for each respective role, as each actor is well-developed and believable; which is also unusual for a Bond film. Though previously appearing in 6 James Bond movies before, Judi Dench gives her most noteworthy and sophisticated performance here; worthy of a nomination at the Academy Awards, but unfortunately not receiving one when the nominations were announced. Also included in this film is the character “Q,” here played by Ben Whishaw, who had not appeared in the previous two films. Adding a bit of sly humor alongside the more dry Daniel Craig, he is a welcome addition to the series.
The 23rd film in a series is one of the greatest of them all. Not too often can that be said about any franchise. With a great cast, cinematography, directing, and an absolutely perfect soundtrack and theme, this is easily one of the most enjoyable action movies of 2012. Don’t expect your average James Bond experience. But do expect to have fun.