For 50 years, James Bond has been one of the most well-known characters in all of cinema. Beginning in 1962, Eon Productions began the tradition of James Bond films, which included such classics as Dr. No, Moonraker, and Live and Let Die. After a series of lackluster editions during the 1990’s and the early 2000’s, English actor Daniel Craig took on the legendary role and gave the series a much needed update. His first two outings as James Bond, Casino Royale and Quantum of Solace, were very well received by critics and fans alike. His latest film, Skyfall, builds off the success and proves to be on the best James Bond films of all time.
The story of Skyfall has a much more personal twist to it compared to previous films. Bond’s agency MI6 has come under attack by a former agent that could potentially destroy the agency altogether. I enjoyed this plot very much because it took away from the previous formula of James Bond films. The villain isn’t out for world domination or trillions of dollars; he is out for pure revenge.
Javier Bardem plays Raoul Silva, a former agent, who is focused on exacting revenge on M, the leader of MI6. Bardem plays this role flawlessly. He is both a genius and a sadistic individual all at the same time. Whenever he is on the screen, he steals your attention and makes you want to learn more about his character. Bardem really disappeared into this role to make a great Bond villain.
As usual, Daniel Craig embodies the role of James Bond. He brings more of a vintage element to the character, which was missing from his predecessor Pierce Brosnan. What makes the Skyfall edition of James Bond even more interesting is the vulnerability he showcases throughout the film. You see him actually struggle and feel pain. Fans are used to seeing a more brash, cocky James Bond who just gets the job done at all costs. We also get to see a more personal touch to Bond more than ever before. The film explores areas of his past that makes him more grounded to viewers.
Overall, Skyfall is great continuation of the legendary film franchise. The film keeps the same tradition as past editions, but continues pushing the franchise forward. There are a few nods to the past James Bond films that provide longtime fans with feelings of nostalgia. While Skyfall discards some of the older traditions of Bond films, it gives a sense that it is moving into a much brighter future.
