Being the biggest opening weekend for a Bond film ever, “Skyfall” is the third “reboot/modern day prequel” with Daniel Craig as 007. Directed by Academy Award winner Sam Mendes, the 24th film in the Bond series is one of the best of all time. Consisting of the beautiful cinematography from 9 time Oscar nominee Roger Deakins, with an incredible score from 10 time Oscar nominee Thomas Newman, and an all star cast – this one is truly worth seeing on the big screen (in fact, the biggest of screens – its playing in IMAX).
The film opens up immediately with intense action, leaving the audience completely involved by the time the opening credits happen. Adele’s voice accompanies visuals that are truly a feast for the eyes, recalling the good ole days of James Bond. The preceding two films with “Quantum of Solace” in particular, were not Bond as we know him – more like Jason Bourne. In this installment, Craig has become an exceptional Bond for a new generation of viewers. Having a theme of “out with the old, in with the new” the film recalls the classic films with having its own new generation twist to it.
The beginning of the film focuses more on M (Judi Dench) and the attacks on MI6 from an unknown assailant. Bond must then find and eliminate the threat, no matter how much it leads to something in M’s hidden past. Arriving in person much later on in the film is the villain, Silva. Played by a scene stealing Javier Bardem, Silva is reminiscent of “The Joker” with computers – a maniacal mastermind of destruction. He has his own agenda that keeps Bond one step behind, being a character that is incredibly dangerous but with a calm, welcoming, and classy demeanor. With all his interesting characteristics, and the ease in which he plays him – its possible Bardem could be getting an Oscar nod for Best Supporting Actor.
Once his character is introduced, it only gets better. The film is close to 2 and a half hours long, but is in no way boring at any point in the film. The fight scenes, scenery, and intensity of the high caliber acting makes it fantastic entertainment in ever way all the way through. This film also introduces a young Q (Ben Whishaw) who doesn’t give Bond too many toys (he even says, “What do you expect, an exploding pen?), this being a realistic reboot and all.
The stunningly beautiful “Bond girl” is played by French actress Bérénice Marlohe, who seemingly has come out of nowhere to great success. The film also stars Naomie Harris, Ralph Fiennes, and Albert Finney – having been a character like Bond from the ladies’ perspective, “Tom Jones” in 1963. The film has references to some of the older, greater Bond films that lovers of the series will pick up on and appreciate. If you’re thinking of seeing “Skyfall” do it, its worth it – especially when it may just be the first Bond film ever to be nominated for Best Picture.
“Skyfall” is now playing in theaters everywhere in IMAX as well as regular screens.
