Skyfall didn't have that much emotion, they saved all the drama till the very end. If Spectre does the same, that's all i need, a 'my parents are dead', is all i need to give bond enough incentive to look good and defeat evil . 3.5/5 is Quantum of Solace level to me. I will definetely like it better than that. None of the original films were personal missions up until OHMSS. They have always been action driven rather than emotion driven and thats how it should be with just a little drama tossed at the end for good measure. I will defend Spectre to the death!
I've seen the film. It doesn't have the dramatic or emotional impact of Casino Royale or Skyfall, so when the end credits start rolling you're left feeling a little empty. There isn't much story and it's pretty obvious who's really who after all the fuss. The main flaw is the relationship between Bond and the villain isn't developed, to such a degree that you wonder if there was any point.
As with Skyfall there are issues with story logic and motivation, but this one gets away with it better due to the emphasis on classic-style Bond entertainment.
The pre-title sequence is as exciting as possible given some poor green screen work; the rest of the visual effects, by ILM this time, are fine. I found the much-hyped car chase a bit of a damp squib. The fight scene is the most satisfying bit of action.
There were a few moments when I wanted Thomas Newman to shut the *beep* up. A much better score could have helped this film quite a bit. Sam Smith's song doesn't screw up the titles too badly. An instrumental of it appears over one scene later in the film to at least try and tie things together.
Monica Bellucci fans will be disappointed with her limited screen time. Lea Seydoux gives the film its heart and soul; it almost feels like Madeleine's story is more important than Bond's. Fiennes, Harris and Whishaw are as good as before. Christoph Waltz enjoys his role playing Christoph Waltz. I don't watch Sherlock but I understand Andrew Scott is the same in everything, so I guess he's done the same here.
It's the funniest of the Craig films by some distance, with many of the laughs provided by Q.
Quantum of Solace haters will sadly be able to use this film as ammunition against that undervalued earlier Craig film, courtesy of the opening titles and a scene near the climax.
I'd keep your eyes closed during the title sequence if you're scared of octopuses (or 'octopi' if you prefer).
The film doesn't really stay in the memory for long which I guess is what ultimately prevents it from being a classic, but it's still good and those who have been missing all the classic Bond tropes will lap it up.
Those critics who gave it 3.5 out of 5 have it right, I think. Maybe a rewatch will push it up to 4/5 because I'll take it for what it is rather than what it isn't. It's certainly a flawed film, though, Bond or otherwise.
Thanks for the balanced and honest review.
For me, I don't think SPECTRE can be worse than the terrible Skyfall, So I think I am personally onto a winner regardless -{
I've just got back from the cinema too. And I don't know what to say really... I think I liked it... Still processing it but I think I need to re-watch before totally making my mind up. Would agree with blame_thatcher on almost all points. Probably just about makes a 4/5, but I think it only grow on me more once I see it again.
scaramanga1The English RivieraPosts: 845Chief of Staff
I've just seen it and my spoiler free review is that it is a 10/10 it has everything I as a Bond fan want. There are homages as you'd expect but handled deftly and not awfully like in DAD all those years ago. It's set pieces are fantastic, the script has a great mix of humour and the serious. Threads are tied up properly. The supporting actors are fantastic throughout and Craig is truly a great Bond. I really do want to just go and see it again. For me it's better than Skyfall and as a QOS2 that is plain right ridiculous. This is without doubt my favourite of DC's outings as Bond - and although I am not a fan of the Sam Smith song - it does fit well with the film. So there you go no plot spoilers just me saying how this film is perfect for a Bond fan like me. :007)
Likewise I just got back and I enjoyed it tremendously.
The worst thing about it is I'll have to wait another three years to get that excitement which started bubbling away inside me as I sat through 20 minutes of Cinema ads and then trailers of future film releases which seemed to go on and on.
Then the moment arrived the roar of the MGM Lion, the film passed by in an flash.
I am now jealous of anyone who hasn't seen it, I'd forgot that special feeling watching a Bond movie at the cinema for the very first time.
Next time I see it, it will be in an IMAX Theatre.
This will in time be in my top three all time favourites.
I can't wait to watch it again however the amount of kids in the theatre and them constantly wanting to go for a piss was unbelievable, so it will deffo be after the half term break.
Just got back. Absolutely loved it. 9/10 - It's great fun.
I wouldn't listen to me though - I loved Quantum of Solace too.
Just go and see it and enjoy. It's really very good
Well I love QoS either so I put all my fate in you Can't wait 'till wednesday.
Don't confuse me with the other DutchBondFan, but be sure to follow his YouTube account. You can read my articles on James Bond Nederland: www.jamesbond.nl/author/gosse/
Reading positive reviews are getting me excited to see this one. I had high hopes for Daniel, and living in the US I still have some time to wait before it comes out. Very excited~
Reading positive reviews are getting me excited to see this one. I had high hopes for Daniel, and living in the US I still have some time to wait before it comes out. Very excited~
Btw, new user here, glad to be here
Welcome man! This one looks to be very cool. I'm gonna drag my Son kicking & screaming to see it with me!
Reading positive reviews are getting me excited to see this one. I had high hopes for Daniel, and living in the US I still have some time to wait before it comes out. Very excited~
Btw, new user here, glad to be here
Welcome man! This one looks to be very cool. I'm gonna drag my Son kicking & screaming to see it with me!
Hey, he's gotta start liking James Bond somehow
Thanks for the welcome~
Being conservative and traditional when it comes to movies, I like the originals better. Especially when it comes to 007. SPECTRE is looking like it gives nods to previous entries, which makes me more hopeful.
Thanks for the spoiler free responses. I have to wait a month still for it to be released in South Africa so I appreciate these quick spoiler free reviews...I've got to keep my enthusiasm up. (While at the same time I'm grumbling inside about having to wait so long!) I'd love to know why they have to stagger the release so, and why SA is the last country besides Japan to get the film!
Watched it last night at Manchester Trafford Centre Imax. It was everything you could want in a Bond film and the two hours flew by. Really good and for me as good as Skyfall. Lots of laughter in the audience. Opening Day of Dead was excellent. Looking forward to a second viewing.
Thanks for the reviews guys! I am in Melbourne and have to wait until November 11 So keep em' coming! Some absolute flog gave a spoiler filled review over at the Mi6 Spoiler free review thread. Seriously the guy gave the entire game away. I adverted my eyes for the rest of it but the damage was done. Roperable! If I was face to face with him i'd Red Grant, Oddjob, Jaws, and hell, even Mr. Kill the s**t out of him.
Watched it last night at Manchester Trafford Centre Imax. It was everything you could want in a Bond film and the two hours flew by. Really good and for me as good as Skyfall. Lots of laughter in the audience. Opening Day of Dead was excellent. Looking forward to a second viewing.
Was wondering about the IMAX presentation. Was the film presented in the 2.40 to 1 scope aspect ratio or the 1.90 to 1 IMAX ratio or shifting aspect ratios (some scenes in 2.40 to 1 and some in 1.90 to 1) ?
Watched it last night at Manchester Trafford Centre Imax. It was everything you could want in a Bond film and the two hours flew by. Really good and for me as good as Skyfall. Lots of laughter in the audience. Opening Day of Dead was excellent. Looking forward to a second viewing.
Was wondering about the IMAX presentation. Was the film presented in the 2.40 to 1 scope aspect ratio or the 1.90 to 1 IMAX ratio or shifting aspect ratios (some scenes in 2.40 to 1 and some in 1.90 to 1) ?
You have gone a bit technical for me so can't help. The picture was fantastic. Sound was generally amazing although some of the dialogue was a bit lost with effects/ background music. It could just be my hearing. Also received a free poster and souvenir tickets presumably as it was opening night.
Watched it last night at Manchester Trafford Centre Imax. It was everything you could want in a Bond film and the two hours flew by. Really good and for me as good as Skyfall. Lots of laughter in the audience. Opening Day of Dead was excellent. Looking forward to a second viewing.
Was wondering about the IMAX presentation. Was the film presented in the 2.40 to 1 scope aspect ratio or the 1.90 to 1 IMAX ratio or shifting aspect ratios (some scenes in 2.40 to 1 and some in 1.90 to 1) ?
You have gone a bit technical for me so can't help. The picture was fantastic. Sound was generally amazing although some of the dialogue was a bit lost with effects/ background music. It could just be my hearing. Also received a free poster and souvenir tickets presumably as it was opening night.
Glad your experience was outstanding. I get a little geeked up about the technical stuff and it's no fun having to wait here in the States to see for myself. IMDB does indicate that the IMAX version has some shift in aspect ratios but they aren't always correct. Worst case scenario, I'll find out when I finally see SPECTRE myself.
On a bit of tight schedule as flying out to LA tomorrow. Will post pics once sorted. Began the day with a quick snifter in The Porterhouse before crossing the road to Rules for a late lunch, at the correct table of course. The Rabbit was excellent as were the surroundings. After lunch we wandered over to the Cork & Bottle, off Leicester Sq to meet Q Branch Kev, ke02eww, The Mantis and their delightful ladies. Only time for a swift sharpener and then Tube to South Kensington and walk up to Prince Consort Way. The atmosphere then started to bite with every step closer we took. There was a queue to enter the red carpet but it moved fairly swiftly. As we got through the archway it felt just like it had for Skyfall. I think we left it about 5 mins later this time and that 5 mins made a huge difference. The red carpet seemed much more packed , but still managed to get a nicely posed photo with Ben Wishaw and was almost rubbing shoulders with BB & MGW. Naomie Harris looked stunning but we missed Monica and Lea. Daniel came off stage with David Walliams (Buffoon English TV personality) just as we got to the bottom of the steps, so by time we got to stage level he'd already pressed the flesh on the left hand side and was now making his way along the press throng on the right of the stage. As we got around the back of the statue by the main entrance we loitered as long as poss and were rewarded as Daniel was just finishing with the press pack. His agent/handler, although not an unnatractive lady kept a very stern face throughout, as she did at Skyfall. Please smile more, it suits you. Along the red carpet we bumped into and spoke to loads of old faces (In the nicest possible way) Alan Stevenson, Remmert van Braam, Simon Ruzgar and Richard Skillman to name but a few. The seated by 1900 memo obviously didn't get through to most people as it was 1930 before the majority came through. After the briefest National Anthen I've ever heard to welcome the Royal Party into the Hall, MGW & BB took to the stage to introduce Sam Mendes who, in turn, introduced the principle cast. Amazingly, unlike Skyfall, no cameras were surrendered to Security and most of the auditorium were snapping away during the intros. As we were sat directly above the Royal Box nothing was seen of the Royal Party except for the live feen on the big screen of them arriving and walking the line. As the principles left the stage the house lights dimmed and the MGM Lion winked it's eye at the audience then ............................. Sorry this is the NO SPOILERS thread
What I can say is that it's a roller coaster ride, I have never heard an audience applaud so much during ANY movie. As I left my chair to leave the only thought going through my head was "OMG, Daniel Craig has finally made a James Bond film"
CR Good
QoS Crap
SF Very Good
SP Outstanding
Managed to secure a couple of taxis which then whisked us off to the Playboy Club for a nightcap or two before their Limosine dropped us at Marylebone Station just in time for the last train home. A very pleasant way to spend a Monday, can't wait to see it in LA in IMAX.
As I left my chair to leave the only thought going through my head was "OMG, Daniel Craig has finally made a James Bond film"
CR Good
QoS Crap
SF Very Good
SP Outstanding
Casino Royale is quite easily superior to Spectre. I find some fans are giving Spectre great reviews simply because it features the Bond tropes that have been mostly missing during the Craig era. Spectre has undeniable flaws.
Well it was ok, it drags on a bit and its not as good as Skyfall. Just my opinion but there it is. Would I watch it again ? Not for a couple of years. It seemed to me like they had a list of everything they thought should be in a bond film and then placed them all in one by one. I did enjoy it, I just thought it could have been 40 mins shorter and more interesting. Its a slow burn and not as in your face and real as Skyfall. Good film though. Just sayin !!
As I left my chair to leave the only thought going through my head was "OMG, Daniel Craig has finally made a James Bond film"
CR Good
QoS Crap
SF Very Good
SP Outstanding
Casino Royale is quite easily superior to Spectre. I find some fans are giving Spectre great reviews simply because it features the Bond tropes that have been mostly missing during the Craig era. Spectre has undeniable flaws.
I found its not perfect but so enjoyable and completely different to the other DC films. I think the series needed this film in DCs tenure, faster, lighter, action packed rather going back down the Skyfall route.
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LoeffelholzThe United States, With LovePosts: 8,998Quartermasters
Interesting that reviews are ranging from glowing, to average, to utterly dire. Which makes it...a Bond film!
Check out my Amazon author page!Mark Loeffelholz
"I am not an entrant in the Shakespeare Stakes." - Ian Fleming
"Screw 'em." - Daniel Craig, The Best James Bond EverTM
Comments
Thanks for the balanced and honest review.
For me, I don't think SPECTRE can be worse than the terrible Skyfall, So I think I am personally onto a winner regardless -{
I wouldn't listen to me though - I loved Quantum of Solace too.
Just go and see it and enjoy. It's really very good
First reaction is that I loved it though I'm still riding the wave of fanboy meltdown.
Once I calm down my view might change. Definitely need another viewing soon to solidify any views I do have.
The worst thing about it is I'll have to wait another three years to get that excitement which started bubbling away inside me as I sat through 20 minutes of Cinema ads and then trailers of future film releases which seemed to go on and on.
Then the moment arrived the roar of the MGM Lion, the film passed by in an flash.
I am now jealous of anyone who hasn't seen it, I'd forgot that special feeling watching a Bond movie at the cinema for the very first time.
Next time I see it, it will be in an IMAX Theatre.
This will in time be in my top three all time favourites.
I can't wait to watch it again however the amount of kids in the theatre and them constantly wanting to go for a piss was unbelievable, so it will deffo be after the half term break.
"Do you expect me to talk? "No Mister Bond I expect you to die"
#1.TLD/LTK 2.TND 3.GF 4.GE 5.DN 6.FYEO 7.FRWL 8.TMWTGG 9.TWINE 10.YOLT/QOS
Well I love QoS either so I put all my fate in you
Likewise
Btw, new user here, glad to be here
1. Roger 2. Timmy 3. Connery 4. Craig 5. George 6. Pierce
#1.TLD/LTK 2.TND 3.GF 4.GE 5.DN 6.FYEO 7.FRWL 8.TMWTGG 9.TWINE 10.YOLT/QOS
Hey, he's gotta start liking James Bond somehow
Thanks for the welcome~
Being conservative and traditional when it comes to movies, I like the originals better. Especially when it comes to 007. SPECTRE is looking like it gives nods to previous entries, which makes me more hopeful.
1. Roger 2. Timmy 3. Connery 4. Craig 5. George 6. Pierce
Was wondering about the IMAX presentation. Was the film presented in the 2.40 to 1 scope aspect ratio or the 1.90 to 1 IMAX ratio or shifting aspect ratios (some scenes in 2.40 to 1 and some in 1.90 to 1) ?
CR/QoS, TLD, DN, GE, TSWLM, LTK, TND, TWiNE, TMWTGG, TB
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You have gone a bit technical for me so can't help. The picture was fantastic. Sound was generally amazing although some of the dialogue was a bit lost with effects/ background music. It could just be my hearing. Also received a free poster and souvenir tickets presumably as it was opening night.
What I can say is that it's a roller coaster ride, I have never heard an audience applaud so much during ANY movie. As I left my chair to leave the only thought going through my head was "OMG, Daniel Craig has finally made a James Bond film"
CR Good
QoS Crap
SF Very Good
SP Outstanding
Managed to secure a couple of taxis which then whisked us off to the Playboy Club for a nightcap or two before their Limosine dropped us at Marylebone Station just in time for the last train home. A very pleasant way to spend a Monday, can't wait to see it in LA in IMAX.
www.justgiving.com/inMemoryOfLewisCollins
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Look forward to seeing some pics when you get chance. {[]
I found its not perfect but so enjoyable and completely different to the other DC films. I think the series needed this film in DCs tenure, faster, lighter, action packed rather going back down the Skyfall route.
"I am not an entrant in the Shakespeare Stakes." - Ian Fleming
"Screw 'em." - Daniel Craig, The Best James Bond EverTM