Review of Skyfall (2012) by Jerico T — 15 Nov 2015

Skyfall is the 007 franchise at its best. It is fun, thrilling, and engaging; a result of Sam Mendes executing a perfect balance between action/spectacle and character/story - something many other bond films lack. The film begins with a thrilling opening sequence; setting the standard and frantic pace for the rest of the film. Daniel Craig remains a very formidable James Bond, and the smart writing and incredibly well choreographed action sequences allow Craig to shine in a way that I believe was missing in Quantum of Solace. As said above too, there is a lot more character depth given to Bond here, and Craig does an amazing job specifically in the first act of conveying Bond's struggle and disappointment in himself by his physical and psychological limitations. His relationship with M also had some genuine moments of emotional payoff. Javier Bardem also delivers a great performance as the villain, and the glass-case scene was an unforgettably chilling moment where Bardem completely sold the craziness of the character.

I was however somewhat underwhelmed by the climax, and ultimately disappointed with the conclusion to Bardem's character, which I found pretty lacklustre and generic. None of it was bad, but I felt the film was travelling at such a high intensity that it deserved a better climax and ultimate payoff. That being said, with mesmerising action spectacles, beautiful cinematography from Roger Deakins, and meaningful character dynamics and development, Skyfall is a super strong entry in the James Bond franchise, and has set a high standard for the next Sam Mendes Bond film; Spectre.