Skyfall

I saw "Skyfall" over the weekend with a number of friends. We all quite enjoyed it. In fact, I think it's one of the best "Bonds" I've seen (and my experience goes back to the opening of "Goldfinger"). Daniel Craig is probably the best Bond since Sean Connery, who created the role. It's not just that he's handsome with a great body (which they show off to great effect), but that he's also an excellent actor in his own right. He brings to Bond a gravitas which has seldom been on display in the past. The film directly addressed the question of aging and turning the series' attention to the new challenges of the modern age in a number of ways - from the new Q's youth to M's age and years on the job, and, specifically, her testimony before a parliamentary committee. Bond, himself, definitely shows the effects of aging and the physical effects he has endured (from the scars to the lines on his face and world-weary attitude). All this builds to create a deeper, more mature experience which enriches the action and violence and sex which are the hallmarks of Bond films. Everything from the writing to the cinematography to the direction (Sam Mendes of "American Beauty") to Adelle's song (and the excellent title sequence) was top-notch. This series is a re-boot of sorts, and this film seems like a re-boot and re-dedication. I hope they continue... Recommended!