Skyfall

Release Date: Nov 09, 2012 
Runtime: 2 hr. 23 min. 
Director: Sam Mendes 
Cast: Daniel Craig, Javier Bardem, Ralph Fiennes, Judi Dench, Naomie Harris, Ben Whishaw.

50 years ago, audiences everywhere were first introduced to the greatest spy in British history. Suave, intelligent, and lethal with a weapon, he was iconically personified by three distinct numbers: 007. Now half a century later, James Bond returns in impeccable fashion, tallying in his 23rd outing which may befittingly be his best. Sam Mendes takes over directing duties for the lucrative franchise that has withstood the test of time — six different Bonds to be exact. Favorably for him, one thing that remains intact is its previous star Daniel Craig who reprises his role for the third time. Since making his debut in "Casino Royale," Craig has built a distinguishable reputation amongst fans with his unconventional looks and aggressive manner. It's in "Skyfall" that his concerted efforts finally pay off in full, solidifying him in a role he seemed destined to play. Opposing but equally proficient is Javier Bardem as Bond's maniacal foe, Raoul Silva. Not a stranger to villainy, ie. "No Country for Old Men," Bardem delivers another spectacular performance that leaves a lingering uneasiness, and whose objective hits close to home. His albino features and muted wickedness are subject to praise, and reasons to ascertain that he'll be remembered as one of the best villains ever. Concordantly, "Skyfall" is also the most alluring of the Bond films, with sweeping views of Shanghai and Macau just to name a few. The beauty of locales adds grandness to the celebration of 50 years in the making, and sets the bar even higher for years to come. It's a testament to filmmaking that quality prevails over redundancy at a time when sequels are a dime a dozen. While Craig's time as Bond is reluctantly limited, the same can't be said for the on-going series. It's just a matter of who does it better in the immediate future. For now, Mendes can proudly hold that title.

Rating: 4½ stars