“Casino Royale” (Sony Pictures)
Not Your Father’s James Bond
There is a new actor playing the role of James Bond in the film “Casino Royale” and he is Daniel Craig. This blond brooding actor gives the latest Bond epic a different presence and a different aura. Added to this is the fact the movie is darker and more dangerous than the usual Bond film. This means you have a new day dawning in the cinematic world of Bond.
“Casino Royale” takes the Bond legend and tells it from Bond’s first kill. This is quickly followed by his second fatal action and qualifies him for 007 status. This is all told in the present world so there is no indication this is a continuation of the Brosnan series of films, or any of the others that preceded this one.
Bond’s superior “M” is played by the superior actress Judi Dench. She and Bond have an antagonistic relationship, still she respects his skills and he respects her position – in a sense. He is always the maverick and she knows it.
In this film there is no “Q” as yet, and so there are no gadgets. There are also no Bond babes, per se. He has his romantic entanglements but these are more cerebral creatures than have populated Bond movies in the past. His most serious romance in this movie is with Vesper Lynn (Eva Green), a woman with her own motivations and agendas.
There is a lot of excitement in this movie, especially an opening sequence involving a race in and on buildings and other structures. It will leave you breathless. But this time out there are less explosions and more fistfights. There is also a lengthy torture sequence that pushes Bond to the brink.
The film has a complicated plot but it is almost understandable. It leads to a high stakes gambling game at “Casino Royale.” That is where Bond makes his appearance in a tux and with coolness to spare.
The movie is rated PG-13 for violence, partial nudity and profanity.
Craig is a gifted actor and he brings a seriousness to Bond that has been lacking in the performances by the other actors who played the role. He appears more deadly and more deadly determined to reach his goals whatever the costs.
This is not your father’s James Bond. This is a new man for the 21st century. Those who long for the quick quips and fascinating gadgetry may not like the change, but odds are the rest of you will. “Casino Royale” signals the dawn of a new day, so buckle up for it is going to be a bumpy ride.
I scored “Casino Royale” a safe bet 7 out of 10.
