Casino Royale -movie review

The new James Bond franchise has arrived with a blue-eyed blond in the title role. That very statement feels counter-intuitive to most Bond fans. And I admit, when Daniel Craig was announced as the next double-O (over my preferred tall & dark Clive Owen) I was not completely sold on the idea. Further, as the previous offering (Die Another Day) was a bloated and gadget-happy endeavour I wasn't very excited for this one. However, repeated exposure to the trailer inspired my interest. And I am happy to report that I can eat my words on all counts!

Casino Royale is an amazing film. It is kinetic, engrossing and sexy as hell! Craig brings a new level of hotness to the franchise built on a physicality that has been missing. He also mixes his magnetism with a playfulness that few women would resist. And the blue eyes? These are showcased to spectacular effect. All of these elements are released in full force from the beginning and don't let up for 2-plus hours.

Based on the first book of the series, Royale is built on a solid Fleming foundation and it shows. The plot is tighter than previous offerings and has been cleanly updated for the new millenium (although an early Cold War quip my M notes the history). This time around, Bond has just earned his OO7 status and is still coming to terms with his license to kill. He is brash, impulsive and aggressive. He is cabapble of running down a target through a construction zone to demolish an embassy. He can jet to the Bahamas and gamble a man out of his car, his wife and his life in under a day. He can (almost) save himself from a heart attack. He can fall madly in love with a dazzling Vesper (Eva Green) and name a drink after her. And he can kick butt with lethal intensity and detachment until the moment when even his butt is exposed. And all of it is done with style. And by the time the Bond theme is playing over the credits you cannot help but be converted to this new brand of Bond.