Casino Royale

Well I have to say that I was surprised by the new Bond. I didn't think that a blond haired blue eyed boy could pull it off, but he did. Casino Royal is a prequel, taking us back to how Bond became 007. He finds himself in a Poker Game in hopes of defeating terrorism, where we are introduced to the memorable Felix Lighter, the CIA Bond counter part. All in all the new Bond movie was pretty entertaining. However for you Bond enthusiasts you may find a few of the Bond Basics missing, no Q brand, no Money Penny, no newly introduced 'R', no fun gadgets...however this film is starting the series over so they may show up in later sequels. Nevertheless the movie is still full of action and "bond girls". I must admit that I did find the ending a tad disappointing...but overall it was still a fun flick.

For Bond Lovers it is a Must See
for the rest of you... Rentable.
**1/2

Casino Royale

The best James Bond movie yet. Daniel Craig is fabulous as James Bond and might I add he is quite the male specimen as well, which you will see when you see the film. All of the over the top special effects are gone and have been replaced with good old fashioned characters and a believable storyline. The story is just complicated enough that you have to pay attention and don't get bored, but not so complicated that you can't follow along unless you are my sister Emily who quite often asks during movies when the audience laughs or gasps, "what's going on?"

The Bond girl is a relative unknown, thank goodness...no more awful Halle Berrys or Denise Richards'. The Bond girl in Casino Royale becomes more likeable as the film progresses. Her voice is grating at times, but otherwise she fulfills her role very well.

Dame Judi Dench does a fabulous job as M. Her character keeps her cool, but is warm, likeable, and quite funny when called upon.

I highly recommend that everyone 13 and older see this film. You'll leave the theater applauding the return of James Bond.

Stars: ***1/2