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Quantum of Solace picks up where Casino Royale left off, with James Bond thirsty for vengeance after Vesper Lynd’s death. The film brings Bond’s personal mission to the forefront as the usual task of saving the world plays a smaller part than his quest to settle the score.
In some ways this close up, character-driven plot is beneficial to the film. Craig is fantastic in his role as 007, portraying a gritty, deeply disturbed Bond who, although ultimately good, leaves the viewer questioning his actions. Bond is a renegade, outside of the government’s control, and his rebellion provides some excellent scenes with Judi Dench’s M, who has been underused in previous films.
And despite the heavy emphasis on the protagonist’s inner turmoil, Quantum of Solace does not skimp on thrills. The film is full of exhilarating action sequences, notably a dramatic plane chase and the climactic final showdown. Some Bond traditions have been kept: the fast cars, the action, the beautiful women; however, Craig’s Bond in this film is ultimately more serious. There is little humour in the film and Bond doesn’t spend much time charming women into bed. In fact, the main Bond girl Camille (Olga Kurylenko) is more than just 007’s lover: she is his parallel, pursuing her own vendetta.
Although I enjoyed seeing Bond’s character develop, the narrative did seem to suffer for it somewhat. The plot is slowed down by long dialogues designed to expose character flaws, meaning the film loses its drive in places.
Nevertheless, this Bond delivers. Quantum of Solace is a hugely enjoyable action film, with Craig proving once again to be a classic 007.
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