Review! Skyfall

Skyfall (2012) Directed by Sam Mendes. Starring: Daniel Craig, Javier Bardem and Naomie Harris. IMDB says: “Bond’s loyalty to M is tested as her past comes back to haunt her. As MI6 comes under attack, 007 must track down and destroy the threat, no matter how personal the cost.”

Skyfall is not only a great Bond film, it’s just an awesome film in general. Everything about the movie is well executed and will have both mass appeal to a wide audience, while still giving hardcore Bond fans more then a few nods. The film instantly sucks you in and gives you multiple reasons to continue to stay at that level of enjoyment.

The acting is spot on in Skyfall. Daniel Craig gives another stellar performance and is quickly becoming one of my favorite actors. Javier Bardem truly seems like a crazy villain and does a fantastic job of making you feel uneasy without being too ridiculous. Judy Dench does a great job as always. Even the supporting actors add a lot of depth to the movie. All around, it is a great cast.

This film follows Casino Royale in setting up the Bond franchise in a prequel type way. Skyfall delves a bit into Bond’s past while introducing some elements more familiar to the older films. In addition to that, it changes some aspects of the films in a way that makes these latest three movies seem more like a definite reboot of the series. Altogether, its interesting to watch the direction of the film as it unfolds.

I would recommend this movie to anyone. People not as familiar with the Bond franchise should have no problem finding a lot to love about Skyfall. And if you are a fan of James Bond, this movie shouldn’t have a hard time ranking among your favorites.

The new James Bond film is everything it should be and more, combining thrilling action set pieces, memorable performances and possibly the most stunning visuals you will see this year. I agree with Rob that this flick will appeal to both lifelong fans and newcomers alike because it’s in a class by itself. With all of Skyfall’s players working at their peak, the movie is elevated to the highest standard or craftsmanship and enjoyment. It might be a bold statement to make with so many great contenders, but Skyfall may just be my favorite action film of 2012.

The movie outlines a pretty simple story and one that is familiar to a lot of long running action franchises: Are we getting too old for this shit? Bond has fallen off the top tier of MI6 and is obviously not at the apex of physical or mental standards that he once donned proudly. M is dealing with the repercussions of the tough decisions she’s made during her time as leader of the agency. The two face the challenge of finding their respective roles in a changing atmosphere of national threats while simultaneously tracking an extremely dangerous terrorist with a personal vendetta. I wasn’t overjoyed at first with the all too familiar plot line but by the end of the film’s journey it felt more than necessary. It’s handled with a level of intelligence and grace that it never slips into cliche territory. I don’t think I would call it a ‘fresh’ take exactly, but it certainly feels like the story that needs to be told, one that is ultimately very satisfying.

Of course, Bond is Bond and the audience is treated to a lot of his famous tricks and triumphs not limited to booze, brawls and babes. Javier Bardem as the insidious Bond villain is equal parts creepy and insane. He creates a character wholly original by completely transforming into an evil man scorned. In addition, the rest of the supporting cast keep the film on the highest level. But what Skyfall does that makes it truly excel is showcase an incredible eye for the cinematography of it’s sets and locations. The first half of the film made my desire to travel the world increase tenfold, changing from one breathtaking location to another. The sets presented later on as the film progresses are that of beautiful grandeur. This was one of the first films since The Curious Case of Benjamin Button that I have been so consciously astounded by the cinematography while watching it. Each scene is picturesque and wonderful, ensuring that each screenshot will be art.

The top notch elements in this Bond film make Skyfall an easy choice for a watch in the theater. Take your friends and don’t hesitate on paying a little more for IMAX.