I would rank the film along with the classics which for me are FRWL, GF, FYEO, TLD, and Goldeneye. I think this is an excellent film but I have some minor issues I would like to see corrected next time out. The first two have to do with toying a little too much with the formula.
1) The Gun Barrel sequence.... This is a classic piece of cinema. I am all for reworking the films but I think the gun barrel sequence to kick off the film should have been there.
2) James Bond Theme. I have only been once thus far but if I recall correctly, the James Bond theme was only blaring at the end during the credits. Again, an all time film classic. It doesn't have to be used everywhere (and in the past its been over used sometimes) but it should be used.
3) Suaveness. I like Daniel Craig as James Bond... to me he is going in the same direction as Dalton ... probably taking Dalton's thrust even further. I However, I think they need to give Craig more of an opportunity to be suauve. This is not a knock against Craig - I just don't think that was written into the part as much as it could be. Having said that, I certainly would like to avoid the Roger Moorish levels that once existed (personally, I think Moore could have been a tougher Bond if they had written it that way - they did once with FYEO).
4) The one truly weak point in the film for me was the romance between Bond and Vesper. Its pretty clear to me from the get go that he wants to sleep with her.... I just found the leap to him falling in love with her. I would say that's the only part of the film that could use some serious improvement. Sure there are other inconsistencies in the film but there are going to be inconsistencies in any film.... just like real life.
Very pleased with this film. I feel bad for Brosnan who I thought could have done a film like this (i.e. a more plot focussed serious film like the beginning of DAD.) Looking forward to Bond's conversation with Mr. White in 2008.... I will be 40.... gives me something to look forward to.
Cheers. Love the site!
Edited by Pushkin, 22 November 2006 - 02:53 AM.