Daniel Craig as James Bond in Skyfall
Where would James Bond be without all of his gadgets? Well-it’s the twenty-first century, even for Ian Fleming’s hero who was originally conceived in 1952. Daniel Craig’s James Bond has little need for gadgets, as all major criminal and terrorist activity is conducted in cyberspace. So in Skyfall, when Bond is outfitted for his latest assignment by the new Q, he is only issued a new gun and a radio transmitter.
Unfortunately, this lack of fun gadgets leaves little awe or surprise in this movie. The action sequences and special effects are fairly ordinary by today’s standards. The plot is very thin. It is refreshing, however, to see Daniel Craig looking as Bond should look; older, craggier, and with diminishing physical skills. The real bright spot is Ben Whishaw as Q. He doesn’t take himself too seriously, and his Q is smart and funny.
Javier Bardem as the villain is creepy looking, but his acting is stilted and unbelievable. Albert Finney and Judi Dench live up to their reputations as extraordinary actors. They both bring real acting skills to their roles.
Skyfall has an interesting premise and a great cast, but the execution of this movie is too uneven. I guess Bond movies are really not my style.Can a movie that has already grossed nearly $90 million be all bad? The bottom line: if this is the type of movie you enjoy, go see it. If it’s not your cup of tea, don’t bother.
La Bibliofille 