Skyfall

    The latest installment from over 50 years of James Bond adventures is an excellent addition to the series. Ian Fleming would be proud of Neil Purvis, John Logan and Robert Wade for creating a fresh, compelling story that also pays tribute to it's colorful history. Director Sam Mendes, so well known for his dramatical work, does a fine job balancing a strong plot with the fun and excitement we've come to expect from 007.

        Daniel Craig is back for the third time as Bond and after the disappointing "Quantum of Solace" (still trying to figure out what that means), he is better than ever in a role he has clearly made his own. Judi Dench returns as "M" and for the first time, becomes a major part of the plot and finds herself in the middle of the action. New additions Ralph Fiennes, Naomi Harris and Ben Whishaw are all in top form in various roles of British Intelligence. Berenice Marlohe plays the beautiful and omnipresent "Bond Girl", Serverine and Javier Bardem is terrific as the villainous Silva.

         The film has all the typical "Bond" elements; a fantastic pre-credit opening sequence that sets up the story, beautiful and exotic locations, all the action you would expect but unexpectedly, a strong emotional story never really seen before in a James Bond film. This time, rather than world domination at stake, the story is personal and digs deep into Bond's past. The witty dialogue is always present but there is a serious undertone that takes the film in a new and interesting direction. There are also some fun nods to past Bond elements that fans will surely enjoy.

         I would be remiss if I didn't mention Adele's terrific theme song and Roger Deakins always excellent photography. "Skyfall" will leave you shaken, not stirred. And happily, "James Bond Will Return".