We both agree this was the best Bond movie!
Dave's review: Casino Royale is the greatest James Bond movie ever made. A very bold statement I know, but let me back it up.
First, it offers up a completely refreshing take on the series, essentially rebooting it by depicting Bond as a brand new "double o." Daniel Craig embodies this role perfectly, full of brash confidence and relentless devotion to the mission. He even makes mistakes, showing that he is not quite yet the polished secret agent you are introduced to way back in Dr. No.
Second, the love story. Quite simply this was the best love story to date, yes, even better than OHMSS by virtue of the complexity of the relationship. Vesper sees through Bond like no one else, and their shared experiences lead to an entirely believable chemistry. There is no more poignant scene in maybe all Bond films than the shower scene when Bond comforts a traumatized Vesper after the stairway fight. She saves his life, he shows real concern for her, she nurses him back to health, he gives up the service for her. And that's not even brushing the powerful tragic ending, which helps to explain why Bond is the way he is going forward.
Third, it keeps you on the edge of your seat the entire time. There's the thrilling Madagascar chase scene, another great chase through the Miami airport, riveting poker hands, the first film by the way to really highlight Bond's prowess as a card player. And the last act of the film completely shifts to a calm before the storm dynamic. Director Martin Campbell is in complete control of his craft.
And last but not least, the performances. Craig is a revelation as Bond, the best actor to ever embody the role. Eva Green is stunning as Vesper, delicately showing off all her different sides, and Mads Mikkelsen is downright sinister as Le Chiffre. The supporting cast is excellent as well.
Dave's grade: A++
TT's review: What can I say? This is the perfect Bond film. It's so raw. Bond showed emotional vulnerability. Verper Lynd was complicated. And Mads Mikkelsen as the villain!
Daniel Craig saved the Bond franchise from obscurity. I mean, can you even imagine any of the past Bonds doing the Madagascar construction site foot chase scene?!
TT's grade: A+
Dave's reaction: It's very true that Craig may have saved the franchise. Audience's patience were wearing thin with Brosnan and the recent lackluster entries.
TT's reaction: I'm glad we agree this is the best Bond film. I can't wait to read your thoughts on the other Craig films.
Rate Casino Royale.
— Tamerlane's Thoughts (@TamerlaneBlog) November 21, 2021
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