Is the new Bond film any good?
Yes, is the answer.
Is it as good as Casino Royal?
Not quite but not far off.
Does it feel like a Bond film?
Not really.
And this is probably the only real stumbling block.
It’s not a Bourne film, although it does more than tip its hat in that direction.
In fact you could argue that the entire roof top chase / fight was lifted straight from Bourne 3, but it doesn’t really feel like a Bourne film either.
That’s not to say it’s not a top film. You’ll certainly get your moneys worth. Fast cars, great action, hot girls: Check, Check, Check.
It’s just that there are no gadgets, hardly any witty come backs (ok apart from the line in the hotel) or indeed, a memorable bad guy.
In fact, just what was so bad about this bad guy anyway? Sure he over throws governments and puts in puppet dictators, then holds the country to ransom. But it’s hardly world domination / wipe everyone out and start again from your headquarters in space or under the sea!
So where does that leave us then?
Well I’ll tell you, the reinvention of Bond continues, it’s great and hard and gritty but they are in danger of losing what made Bond likeable in the first place.
Think of this one as part two of a trilogy and it makes more sense. Fingers crossed, when Bond returns next time, he brings a couple of jokes and some laser watches with him!
4 out of 5
(Take a point off if you miss the white cat patting baddies)