Skyfall (***1/2 out of ****)

James Bond is back after the disappointing Quantum of Solace with one of the best Bond films ever. Skyfall dives deep into Bond's past and troubles while not coming up short with the material that made the series so beloved. Cool, suave, action packed but rarely compromising in quality makes this something Bond films have been waiting for.

Daniel Craig returns for his third trip as Bond and while his age is beginning to slightly show, that doesn't make him any less capable of being of of the better Bonds. Skyfall has our hero dealing with a villian that close to his own personal home. Silva (Javier Bardem) has mastered the manipulation of information. He uses technology to his own advantage and whim, this most likely leads to the misery of mankind. What's interesting is Silva is a former MI6 agent in the mold of Bond. I dare not see anymore, the film should be enjoyed in person.

Skyfall does many things new while bringing up points that made many Bond films in the past work. Returning characters (notably Q played by Ben Whishaw, and some that need to be seen in person), gadgets, vehicles and a style of action (not entirely science fiction like certain Bond film) make the film work extremely well. Unlike many other films in the series, this film gives the best and more interesting idea of who Bond is as a person beyond the super agent exterior. Yes there are a few unbelievable moments  and lazy writing bits, but the overall product is too strong to ignore. Skyfall is photographed by Roger Deakins who has made perhaps the best looking Bond film to date. Creating a balance of light in shadow that has not been seen in the series before is thrilling. Skyfall is made to be emotional and action heavy, and succeeds often widely. Maybe the film is not is as strong as Daniel Craig's Casino Royale, but it's still grand, one of the top ten Bonds ever.

***1/2 out of ****