9 replies to this topic

[JimmyBond]

This and the Miami sequence will probably stand out as some of the best action sequences in the series, but I want to strip away the context and just discuss the parkour chase here. Primarily it's placement in the film. Yes, I'm posting this in the spoiler forum, but even then this will hold extreme spoilers unless you've read the script and/or seen the film.

I'm primarily concerned with the placement in the film. It is the first time we see Bond after the MTS, seems a bit sudden to be putting him into an action sequence. Even the Brosnan films used the scenes after the titles to set up the story. Don't get me wrong, the scene reads great, and I'm eagerly awaiting to see it up onscreen, but it will be the first time we're thrust into an action sequence this early on.

[DanMan]

Let's just be glad they didn't merge it with the pre-titles like they did on TWINE.

[1q2w3e4r]

Could possibly be due to the middle part of the film being focused on the poker game and the interaction between the characters. A quick little action scene which we see a fair bit of in the trailer. And the last part of the film with the finale/torture scene/ car chase etc.

[David Schofield]

In would suggest its for a couple of reasons:

1. As pointed out above, the film will slow during the long casino scenes. This is inevitable and while it may be ok with "us" it might not be to the majority of casual viewers.

2. Is the PTS really that exciting: it contains a chat and a fight, and that's it. There is none of the big budget spectacle that launched Brozza's films and subsequently allowed them to quiten down for a little while after the MTS.

Just emphasises the different balance of this movie to it predecessors, and it shouldn't be a problem. In fact, IMO, the change will be pleasant.

[Vauxhall]

I would argue that even though it is an action scene, it does set up the story to quite a large extent - it explains a lot about the character of Bond as a raw 00-agent - he is shown to be impulsive and brash in his actions. Ultimately this is a very important insight into his character throughout the rest of the movie. Also, it starts off the "ellipsis" trail - which is important to the plot. I don't think I'll have a problem with there being an action scene so early on, especially after the toned down pre-title sequence. I hope it should work quite well in the context.

[I Like Sharks]

So long as theres some build up to the sequence then it should seem fine. Wouldn't make sense to just go from the titles straight into an action sequence. I suppose the scene is meant to feel like a second PTS, which should satisfy people expecting a big Brosnan-type action scene to start the film.

[Vilain]

Could a script reader clarify if there is a lead in to the sequence? I'd imagine there might be a bit of Bond sneaking around before the chase, but I would like to know for sure.

[JimmyBond]

Basically Bond and a colleague are amongst a crowd of people (a snake/mongoose fight is being watched) the Colleague makes the mistake of touching his ear when communicating with Bond. The subject that they're watching notices this and runs, this is when Bond starts after him.

[Vilain]

Thank you for the insight, Jimmy.

From that description, I think it could go either way, might feel a bit rushed or pushed into the film merely for the action, or it could actually add quite a bit to the story with the action fitting in nicely.

[JimmyBond]

Thank you for the insight, Jimmy.

From that description, I think it could go either way, might feel a bit rushed or pushed into the film merely for the action, or it could actually add quite a bit to the story with the action fitting in nicely.

Well, upon reflection (and rereading Vauxhall wonderful post). The sequence really does set up practically every story thread in the film, and does what every good Bond film should do: has Bond be the one who's driving the action.