[8.75/10] Skyfall (2012)

Skyfall (2012)

Brief review: Brought to life by one of the most gifted directors in film history, Sam Mendes, "Skyfall" is everything a modern spy thriller should be, and then some. It starts out very promisingly, with a (thankfully) long, super-thrilling, high-octane opening sequence, filled with very impressive stunts that are both difficult to perform, and hard to execute. The end result is an electrifying action spectacle, you’d hardly forget, followed by tone of he coolest-looking opening credits. The film not only begins with a bang, but continues to excite until the very end. The well-balanced and smartly-written script skillfully alternates dynamic action sequences with equally as absorbing dialogue-driven scenes, providing the viewer with a well-thought-out plot that is complex, but at the same easy to follow. Even though it would be a lie if we call "007: Skyfall" 'action-packed', the action it provides is nothing short of startling. Sam Mendes yet again demonstrates great versatility, interesting directing choices, and classy camera work, plus, the subtle, yet highly polished cinematography adds sophistication to the already tasteful visuals. Daniel Craig is arguably the best Bond so far, and he proves that with yet another strong, charismatic performance, baring a whole new vulnerable side of his character. Javier Bardem is perfectly cast as the quietly intimidating villain, Raoul Silva, and the supporting performances are all equally as memorable.

Overall summary: Clever, thrilling, endlessly compelling, and brilliantly put together, Mendes’ "Skyfall" may be a notch below Martin Campbell’s astounding "Casino Royale", but it still ranks as one of the best, most accomplished, and ultimately entertaining Bond films to date.

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