You know, at the age of 21, I've realized I may not be the best candidate to review a Bond film, because I am such a huge fan. I can still watch even the really bad ones, like "Moonraker" and "Die Another Die," and find stuff to enjoy. The Bond series is my favorite film franchise, and James Bond is my favorite movie character of all-time. Daniel Craig just so happens to be my favorite Bond, and "Skyfall," directed by Sam Mendez, who also directed the newest movie, is my favorite Bond film. The stars were aligned for me to love this new installment: "Spectre." Long review short, I did.
"Spectre" is the 24th film adventure of 007, in which Bond is investigating the mysterious organization known as Spectre. He not only discovers a world domination plot, but he also discovers that this organization has been the source of his misery for the past couple of years. Bond must take down Spectre, while also battling with his purpose in life.
The biggest compliment I can give the film is for its direction. Sam Mendez was born to direct Bond films. This is not only the most beautiful Bond film, it's probably one of the most beautiful looking films ever put to screen. Each location is shot to perfection, and it often took my breath away. The entire opening scene in Mexico is a treat for film lovers; there's so much to take in. As a film buff, this film was an all-you-can-eat buffet for cinematography. I could talk all day about how awesome this aspect is, but I urge you to view the film to see it for yourself.
Daniel Craig's legacy as the greatest Bond was cemented long ago. This only adds on to it. Craig is the perfect blend of suave and dangerous killer to capture Bond, and the rest of the cast holds their own against a powerful lead. Christoph Waltz has been my dream Bond villain since 'Inglorious Bastards." He did not disappoint. Dave Bautista also shined as the trademark Bond Villain henchman (Say that ten times fast).
The only real quibbles I have are pretty minor. I wanted more of the romance between Bond and his Bond girl. That romance was crucial to the story, and it just needed more time to flow and live up to its importance. However, to want more out of a two and half hour movie may be more complimentary than anything else. I also stand by the notion that Sam Smith's "Writing's on the Wall" was a terrible Bond theme, but even that was made up for by a perfect opening credits sequence playing with it.
"Spectre" is the perfect blend of "Casino Royale" and "Skyfall." It ties up the entire Craig Bond story line in a neat little package. The action is insane. If you don't go crazy over a certain train fight scene, then you don't have a heartbeat. If this truly was the end for Daniel Craig as Bond, he went out with a roar and not a whimper.
I loved this movie. As a Bond fan, it satisfied me. As a film lover, it satisfied me. It's not my favorite Bond film, but it's certainly in my top five. "Spectre" is a triumph and proves that even after 50 years, Bond still has so much more to give to the cinema, and he has no plans of letting up.
