Review of Quantum of Solace (2008) by Caesar M — 08 Nov 2012

Quantum of Solace never reached the same heights as it predecessor for it doesn't focus on Bond character in the same form nor making a 20 minute direct continuation a good idea. Quantum of Solace has it defenders (like myself) who enjoyed the film, but even those who liked it will call this sequel a disappointment.

Quantum of Solace overall plot is a complete mess. The only plot you will savage from viewing this film is Bond seeking revenge to avenge his love from Casino Royale and will probably get you through the film. The main problem with the plot is that is convoluted in narration and too many action scenes. It's so convoluted to the point it feels like the writers simply were making things up as the film went along. The plot never gives audiences to connect the plot points given to us resulting in a complex mess you will not understand or care for. The amount of scenes in this entry is to much even for a huge fan of the action genre like myself to tolerate. Some action scenes could have taken out and rightfully have used add more to plotting and development. This entry feels more like a Jason Bourne interpretation of a Bond than a actual Bond film. The few things the plot gets right is sticking to Bond novel counterpart, though we don't get much into depth. The plot has it fair share of good moments and for a film written during a Writer Strike it could have been far worst. I did see potential in this film which could have benefited if the writers had more time. Though it might be convoluted for the most part this Bond entry is still good adaptations of the novels.

Much like Taken 2, the main problem with the film is it director. Marc Forster simply does not eliminate unnecessary scenes for plot purposes. He even gets the actions scenes wrong often shaky the camera making it difficult to clearly see what's happening. Another problem with these action scenes is that no matter how good they look some could have been left out. Marc Forster direction for the first half is missing and nothing felt concrete while viewing it. The only time Forster get something moderately right is handling non violent sections, but even then his lack of strong direction will have you likely not caring and confuse. The film saving grace comes from it cast. Daniel Craig might be doing more killing here, but he still showcases the softer side of Bond when required to do so. Although Mathieu Amalric as a Bond villain never works and is forgettable. The villain does not have enough development nor the presence to convince me otherwise. The supporting cast did good as well. Though the Bond girls might be a step down from Casino Royale, they still deliver.

Quantum of Solace needed further development for it drama and more concrete direction to carry it confusing narration. Despite it flaws, the plot is salvageable at some level, the action scenes all well orchestrated, and the great cast makes it fun even if it doesn't come close to it predecessor high quality.