Skyfall

James Bond is the star of the ultimate film franchise. 22 movies that have adapted with the times, unable to be killed when a poor film is released (or a series of poor films). What’s that, MGM? You don’t have the money to make the latest installment? That’s okay, we’ll wait. And now the wait is over. Skyfall has Daniel Craig return to the tuxedo for the third time to battle a cyber-terrorist (Javier Bardem) targeting MI-6 and more specifically, M (Judi Dench). Many of the classic Bond motifs are present for the die-hard fans. Ben Whishaw stars as a Q, a certain Aston Martin makes an appearance, and Bond is forced to introduce himself in the well-known format- Last name, first name, last name.

The film’s opening sequence results in Bond’s apparent death by gunshot, then falling off a bridge. I don’t entirely understand how he could have survived that, but there has never been a more obvious fake-out than this. Sure he “dies” in convincing fashion, but he’s James Bond. He obviously isn’t going to die, so why even pretend? I suppose it’s to blend into the stunning opening credits accompanied by Adele’s theme for the movie. But what the apparent death actually does is build some tension with Eve, (Naomi Harris) who shoots him and M, who gives the order. It’s possible there has never been a more layered Bond movie than Skyfall with the range of emotions and depth of characters presented.

Among all the old Bond references and updated excitement that is expected, the film actually gives the audience something very new, a look into Bond’s past. Avoiding any spoilers, the film’s title refers to an aspect of the spy’s past that proves very interesting. It amazes me that 50 years since the original incarnation, Dr. No, the audience is learning so much about the character, much more during these Daniel Craig chapters. Compared to its counterparts, Skyfall is possibly the best of the 23.

Each film earns either zero, a half or a full arrow in five categories. The categories are Acting, Writing/Directing, Emotion, Innovation and Overall Impression. The arrows are added up to equal the full score.