Casino Royale
Columbia Pictures | Release Date: November 17, 2006
8.5
USER SCORE
Universal acclaim based on 1637 Ratings
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Positive:
1,451
Mixed:
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Negative:
104
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10
IMAX500May 22, 2014
OK Better than Sky fall. You can see this movie. this is one of my first movies with torture. First bond movie with a longest poker game in the movie.
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
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10
Kai82Jan 6, 2021
The twenty-first James Bond movie and awesome debut of Daniel Craig. Today it seems unbelievable but there were huge resentments for Daniel Craig and even a petition to remove him. Then came the movie and he silenced all critics. He plays aThe twenty-first James Bond movie and awesome debut of Daniel Craig. Today it seems unbelievable but there were huge resentments for Daniel Craig and even a petition to remove him. Then came the movie and he silenced all critics. He plays a younger, rougher and more unpolished James Bond that even sometimes shows emotions behind his facade. It is canonically the first movie in the timeline shortly after he received his license to kill and became a 00 agent. There is also the theory that James Bond is not one person and it is just the code name of whoever becomes 007 (Plausible but debunked in later movies. Still an interesting idea and fun topic to discuss). It is actually the third adaptation of Casino Royal the first James Bond book by Ian Fleming. There is a parody staring David Niven from1967 that is a bit of obscure James Bond trivia and a nearly unknown TV adaptation from 1954 that barely is recognizable. This is however easily the best movie and a good adaptation. They actually improved the book or modernized it. After the intense and well filmed intro (that I wont spoil) James Bond is send on an errant to stop Le Chiffre who can be described as banker of villains. He is currently vulnerable as he made some bad investments and sets up a poker tournament to get money as soon as possible before his clients target him. James Bond is accompanied by Vesper Lynd from the HM Treasury. The story works amazingly in combination with the characters. It has intense moments, character development and twist that will get you immediately immersed. It has a strong cast and I think I start with Daniel Craig. He was just amazing. He plays a new and different kind of James Bond. He is younger and a bit rougher on the edges but also shows more emotions and becomes more relatable because of it. He silenced all critics and is now a valid choice for best James Bond actor. Then there is Eva Green as Vesper Lynd. Forget all tropes about Bond girls. She is smart and no damsel in distress. She even counters James Bond attacks in conversations (I think she won). I think she equally delivers and impressed me too. There is the statement that a hero is only as interesting as his villains and here we get one of the best in recent years. Mads Mikkelsen as Le Chiffre delivers an awesome performance. He nails the role of villain and being driven into a corner. From the rest I always praise Judi Dench as M who has smaller roles but always nails it and Jeffrey Wright as Felix Leiter who became a favorite side character. Again both deliver with excellence. Then there are the action scenes. All are intense, immersive and you feel the impact. The choreography was amazing and set a standard for the franchise. After “Die another Day” they wanted a more grounded approach so there are no gadgets or huge effect scenes. It works well and I think they revitalized the franchise. For the soundtrack I think they did a good job even if I am in the minority. You know my name delivers to the movie and theme of a new era. Overall this was an amazing experience and it is one of the best movies in the franchise. A must see that I would even recommend to non James Bond fans.… Expand
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10
root_Dec 13, 2014
It is dark ,cold ,classy& edgy all the things you need from 007 agent .
"Even James Bond, in other words, wants to be 007.
This movie is a serious business to depict the real bond from the novel. David Arnold what a genius score. Also itIt is dark ,cold ,classy& edgy all the things you need from 007 agent .
"Even James Bond, in other words, wants to be 007.
This movie is a serious business to depict the real bond from the novel.

David Arnold what a genius score. Also it has some of the classiest cinematography I have ever came across in my life

The Best bond and bond movie ever for me,… Expand
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10
MrMovieBuffOct 29, 2015
I remember when this movie was first released and that Daniel Craig was going to play Bond, there was controversy and backlash due to the fact that Craig did not meet everybody's needs as he looked nothing like the Bond we all imagined.

II remember when this movie was first released and that Daniel Craig was going to play Bond, there was controversy and backlash due to the fact that Craig did not meet everybody's needs as he looked nothing like the Bond we all imagined.

I had very low expectations with this movie, thinking that it was just going to be a routine Bond film with dumb action, endless gadgets and gimmicks, just like the Pierce Brosnan Bonds were becoming shortly after his debut in 'Goldeneye' (1995).

It seems my disappointment was non-existent, 'Casino Royale' is easily the best Bond movie since 'Goldeneye' (1995), which was also directed by Martin Campbell. This is a much grittier movie with a more vulnerable and human Bond. A character who was once two-dimensional, a character who had nothing but a fancy car, gadgets and women now has personality. This is thanks to Craig's performance mixed with a smart screenplay written by Neal Purvis, Robert Wade and Paul Haggis.

Mads Mikkelsen plays LeChiffre, the main villain in the movie who also has a slice of vulnerability unlike most Bond villains. He is sadistic, but he is also hurt. You have Eva Green as Vesper, James' associate throughout the movie, as a Bond girl, she is one of the best. There is also some vulnerability there as well. All of these characters are human, they are not stereotypes, they are not weighed down by cliches, this movie and the characters are all fresh.

'Casino Royale' is also the first Bond novel written by Ian Fleming and the movie is seen as a reboot for the character and franchise. It makes sense to go back to the drawing board and use the first ever book to re-invent the franchise. The only thing missing in this movie are the characters Q and Moneypenny, but it seems that you can make a Bond movie without them, as long as you add some more depth and dimension to the characters you are focusing on.

'Casino Royale' is great, one of the best Bonds ever. Darker, more personal and more tense than previous outings. The only movie after this that lived up to expectations is 'Skyfall' (2012) which I already reviewed. 'Casino Royale' deserves its 10/10 score.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
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10
E_blissOct 28, 2015
Easily the best Bond film of all time, but will not be fully appreciated for at least another 20 years. Daniel Craig offers a gritty performance with plenty of emotion and direction, while Eva Green as Vesper Lynd is terrific and someone theEasily the best Bond film of all time, but will not be fully appreciated for at least another 20 years. Daniel Craig offers a gritty performance with plenty of emotion and direction, while Eva Green as Vesper Lynd is terrific and someone the audience cares about. Faultless.… Expand
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10
ShadowUApr 24, 2023
This might sound controversial, but if you take your fan goggles off, Bond movies have always been either pretty bad or just alright. Don't get me wrong, I like the idea of a Bond film: a spy thriller starring a suave agent, who uses wit toThis might sound controversial, but if you take your fan goggles off, Bond movies have always been either pretty bad or just alright. Don't get me wrong, I like the idea of a Bond film: a spy thriller starring a suave agent, who uses wit to get out of difficult situations. But the films themselves never really delivered on that idea.

First off, James Bond is not suave at all. He's a bit of an **** and a raging misogynist. He's also a complete moron, unbefittingly so for a spy. His signature move is heading into the villain's lair with no plan whatsoever, relying solely on dumb luck and the sheer improbability that thousands of bullets will all miss him during the inevitable shoot-out.

Fans have labelled the films "campy", but I'd call them "unintentionally really stupid". The villains are cartoonish and under-developed. The plot tends to meander wildly. The humour often conflicts with the movie's tone. Worse yet, the movies are all highly formulaic, adhering to rigid traditions like they're the ten commandments. They must all feature over the top gadgets, a fancy car, a dumb Bond girl, etc -- a whole checklist of Bond tropes, which ultimately makes them feel tired and uninspired.

The team behind Casino Royale were clearly aware of those issues, and they had a genius idea: strip it all away. Take the essence of James Bond and spy movies, and trim all the fat, keeping only what makes them fun, interesting, unique. Set the film in reality, not the ridiculous parallel universe that the Bond series has always existed in. In doing so, they succeeded in creating what might be the best film franchise reboot of all time.

The silly gadgets are replaced by a practical utility kit in Bond's car. The villains now have actual human motivations and act like the genius criminals they're supposed to be, rather than petty thugs and raving lunatics. The Bond girl isn't just eye candy, but an accomplice to Bond, with vital importance to the plot. The film's tone matches its content, with humour peppered in as appropriate. Bond uses his wit rather than his luck - shocking, I know. And when he has to kill someone, their deaths have appropriate impact, instead of feeling comical.

The biggest changes in the formula pertain to the character of Bond himself, unsurprisingly. Right from the get-go, he's clearly established as the reckless womanizer his character has always been. However, as Casino Royale is an origin story, we finally get to see why Bond is the way he is, which makes a world of difference. Daniel Craig's stellar performance allows us to finally see Bond in a human light. His character develops over time: he starts off as a hard-ass, but when a loved one dies near the end, we the audience can intensely feel how badly this affects him in Craig's performance.

Craig isn't the only actor to deliver a superb performance, however. Mads Mikkelsen is timeless as Le Chiffre, the primary antagonist. He masterfully portrays a brilliant villain in a complicated, desperate situation. Eva Green plays Vesper Lynd, the "Bond girl", to perfection. A scene of hers in the shower near the mid point was a master class in character development. Really, every actor playing a named character in this film, no matter how minor, delivered an amazing performance that truly helped set up the world and its stakes.

The screen writers did an amazing job of taking the first ever Bond novel and bringing it into the 21st century. But director Martin Campbell's role in bringing it all together cannot be understated. Every scene was superbly designed and shot. The pacing in particular stands out. The movie spends a modest amount of time at the start setting up the world of James Bond & his character, but dialogue / story scenes (which are the main focus) and action scenes flow off each other in perfect harmony. Neither moves too fast or drags on for too long, which is a common flaw of many action films, including the Bond series.

By the time the film's titular casino sequence begins at the mid point, all of the characters have rational goals & motivations clearly established, and the plot proceeds in a coherent direction. As you'd expect of a spy movie, there are lots of twists, but none of them feel cheap or implausible. You don't have to completely suspend your disbelief and forget the main character is supposed to be a spy in order to enjoy Casino Royale -- a sin that's all too common among Bond films.

Everything about this movie is executed masterfully, simply put. To me, it represents the gold standard for both Bond movies and spy films in general -- what they can be, and should aim to be. It set the bar so high that subsequent Craig films couldn't even reach it, unfortunately. It transformed a long-exhausted, goofy (sorry, "campy") series that was was about spies only nominally, into a realistic, gritty masterpiece, which thrills you from start to finish.

Kudos to the entire Casino Royale team for this absolute gem.… Expand
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10
ryan_gozNov 2, 2015
Without a doubt the most compelling, action packed, emotional and convincing bond movie out of the entire franchise. Finally a bond girl that judges and challenges bond on an emotional level he can't control. Mads Mikkelsen truely sets aWithout a doubt the most compelling, action packed, emotional and convincing bond movie out of the entire franchise. Finally a bond girl that judges and challenges bond on an emotional level he can't control. Mads Mikkelsen truely sets a precedent as the perfect bond villain (he actually has a reason). The perfect example of a three act movie with amazing character development and a stunning ending.… Expand
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10
aadityamudharApr 18, 2016
Easily one of the best, is not the best, Bond films since the days of Connery. The dark and gritty tones are a welcome change of pace, and the story still manages to infuse humour in the right places, and in my opinion also in the rightEasily one of the best, is not the best, Bond films since the days of Connery. The dark and gritty tones are a welcome change of pace, and the story still manages to infuse humour in the right places, and in my opinion also in the right quantity. Easy 10.… Expand
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10
arostislavnaSep 12, 2020
The definitive, and perfect bond outing.

The entire opening sequence is brutal, gritty, and essentially one of the most captivating openings to any james bond film to date, not to mention filmed superbly. Throughout the film it exceeds atThe definitive, and perfect bond outing.

The entire opening sequence is brutal, gritty, and essentially one of the most captivating openings to any james bond film to date, not to mention filmed superbly.

Throughout the film it exceeds at telling a spy story without the need of excessive mindless violence, it is - after all, a film about a poker tournament.

Yes there are twists, and calls for action when they are absolutely crucial. Less is more and done really effectively here.… Expand
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10
MasterRileyJul 20, 2016
Casino Royale is one bad ass Bond film. It is Daniel Craig's introduction as Bond, and what an introduction it is. With great villains, an epic opening chase scene, great action, great performances, and beautiful locales Casino Royale is a fun ride.
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10
Gamepro3093Aug 19, 2020
A fantastic movie! Hard to believe it was preceded by that vile Die Another Day. Everything is on point, from the action, to the magnificent direction by Martin Campbell, to the much improved score by David Arnold, to the acting, the dialogueA fantastic movie! Hard to believe it was preceded by that vile Die Another Day. Everything is on point, from the action, to the magnificent direction by Martin Campbell, to the much improved score by David Arnold, to the acting, the dialogue is great and Daniel Craig is a much more believable Bond compared to Pierce Brosnan. If you haven’t seen it yet then i strongly suggest seeing it today.… Expand
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10
Embalmer98Jun 9, 2021
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10
Autopsy904Jun 14, 2021
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10
Aerialist277Jun 18, 2021
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10
Pluto744Jun 20, 2021
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10
LumdogOct 10, 2021
The best Bond movie ever made in my opinion. Everything here just works so well - Daniel Craig's introduction as James Bond is just so badass; Mads Mikkelsen's villain is desperate, complex and terrifying, the action is well-shot and heartThe best Bond movie ever made in my opinion. Everything here just works so well - Daniel Craig's introduction as James Bond is just so badass; Mads Mikkelsen's villain is desperate, complex and terrifying, the action is well-shot and heart pumping; and Chris Cornell's "You Know My Name" is a fantastic Bond song.… Expand
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10
realjaytheboomSep 15, 2021
Fantasic score on top of great acting from Craig and Mads Mikkelsen, Martin Campbell does a great job coming back to the James Bond franchise in one of my favorite films of all time
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10
hammbone18Nov 23, 2021
Not only is it a great Bond film, but it’s just a great movie in general. Really set the tone for this era of Bond films.
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10
yellowtailJan 22, 2022
Perfect!!
Daniel Craig is wonderful as the inexperienced spy. Mads Mikkelsen is also great.
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10
GDsReviewsJun 7, 2022
Daniel Craig's debut as James Bond in Casino Royale here is a dark, gritty, and well executed movie that is easily one the best Bond movies of all time.
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10
TheGreatNikakisAug 4, 2022
The movie that changed Bond forever. Casino Royale features the best Bond (Craig should have won the BAFTA) and the best bond girl in the franchise's history, while also adding a gritty, realistic tone to an otherwise campy movie franchise.The movie that changed Bond forever. Casino Royale features the best Bond (Craig should have won the BAFTA) and the best bond girl in the franchise's history, while also adding a gritty, realistic tone to an otherwise campy movie franchise. The great dialogues and Bourne inspired action sequences also add to this films charm. An undeniable masterpiece.… Expand
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9
R.NicholsApr 8, 2007
Best Bond movie by far. Comparisons to Bourne Supremacy are right. Finally a Bond that's not a wimp, but a killer. Craig is the right actor for the role. Great casting. Hope the next Bond movie keeps with this new approach to Bond.
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9
DrewF.Nov 20, 2006
Best Bond film since "The Living Daylights" (So that's nearly 20 years!) I admit to being less then enthused when i first heard that Daniel Craig was selected to be the new Bond. I revoke ANY negativity i previously expressed. This guy Best Bond film since "The Living Daylights" (So that's nearly 20 years!) I admit to being less then enthused when i first heard that Daniel Craig was selected to be the new Bond. I revoke ANY negativity i previously expressed. This guy is easily the best Bond since Sean Connery. Film has some sparkling banter between Bond and M, and Bond and Vesper. Movie starts off with one of the most exciting action sequences that the series has ever seen. Great performance by Mads Mikkelsen as the most believable and sympathetic Bond villain to come along in awhile. Great entry in the series.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
ChrisFMay 14, 2007
As a massive Bond fan this recent remake of the original book of Fleming's series fits the overall storyline extremely well. All of those who ive low ratings for no plot or a stop-start sequence, you are contradicting yourselves in your As a massive Bond fan this recent remake of the original book of Fleming's series fits the overall storyline extremely well. All of those who ive low ratings for no plot or a stop-start sequence, you are contradicting yourselves in your reviews, the film needed the slower poker sections to add tension and depth to the characters and the story, but adds the fast-paced action sequences to bring about the necessary climax to each event. And for all those whining about the lack of the "usual" bond plot items, ie, the moneypenny scene, the gadgets, the corny one-liners; again these are not part of the plot, nor is it the bond of the story that is being told in this film, and for those that claim you are bond fans, you should understand this and appreciate it for what it is, even if it doesn't cover your checklist. For those complaining about the violence, it's unnecessary, it's too dark, too gory, etc; since when have we NEVER seen bond bleed? See Dalton, or Pierce, however, what we do see is an invincible Craig coming back to the table after a huge fight and again a poisoning! And then we see the suave, but still too young and inexperienced to be charming, coming back to match wits against his evil and over-the-top adversary, with plenty of glib comments, "that last hand almost killed me". How anyone could be blind enough to give this film less than 5 is beyond me, especially so-called "bond fans". The only thing left to say about the movie to prove all these confused nay-sayers wrong, is that people voteed with their wallets, making this film one of the top 40 (at least) ranked global grossing films of all time, leaving us with little to doubt, BRING ON BOND #22!… Expand
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9
JadaG.Dec 1, 2006
This film action packed from beginning to nearly end then end. There was one moment that lasted a good 5 minutes that was too long, but everything else meet or exceeded standards. Go and see for yourself.
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9
HeathQ.Dec 18, 2006
Although Daniel Craig is not who I would say was the obvious choice (Clive Owen), he plays a kick ass Bond. Dark, mysterious, evil, and all while he is still learning the ropes. What everyone has to remember is that this story was written as Although Daniel Craig is not who I would say was the obvious choice (Clive Owen), he plays a kick ass Bond. Dark, mysterious, evil, and all while he is still learning the ropes. What everyone has to remember is that this story was written as the ORIGINAL Bond Story, before he became a double 0 agent. Yes, Bond is a suave character in the films we have all grown to love, but this is the unexperienced Bond, lover of women, but night quite as slick as he is yet to become. Great film, can't wait for Bond 22.… Expand
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9
AzaE.Dec 3, 2006
Great, but where was Q?
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9
GauthamSDec 7, 2006
Raw, formidable and absolutely humane ! One of the best James Bond Movie .
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9
BarryS.Jan 2, 2007
As a youngster, I loved the Bond films and particularly ones starring Connery. In the years since, I had been growing tired of the cartoonish Bond, the man who could never lose at anything and who, when all else failed, would simply use a As a youngster, I loved the Bond films and particularly ones starring Connery. In the years since, I had been growing tired of the cartoonish Bond, the man who could never lose at anything and who, when all else failed, would simply use a gadget to extricate himself from his dilemma. In fact, from the moment each gadget was issued to him, one could envision just when that life-saving device would come in handy. Everything about Bond had become stale and predictable. Casino Royale is not perfect. The villains roles and their relationships to each other could be better defined and the movie drags in small bits. But the overall product is the first Bond film worth seeing in years. Craig does a great job as the pre-quel Bond. Here's hoping Craig returns and builds on what he has started. With more experience and a growing reputation Bond is poised to act more cleverly and even be outfitted with some state of the art gadgetry, some of which he may not use despite having it. If you like a more realistic Bond and a story that was not simply re-written and repackaged, then you will like the new Bond. I look forward to what is in store for 007 now that he has someplace to go other than cartoon land.… Expand
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9
MarkB.Jan 3, 2007
Chomp, chomp, (choke), gulp. That's the sound of a good many 007-watchers, myself included, who spent the last two years or so moaning about Daniel Craig's casting as "the first blond Bond' eating our words. While I'm Chomp, chomp, (choke), gulp. That's the sound of a good many 007-watchers, myself included, who spent the last two years or so moaning about Daniel Craig's casting as "the first blond Bond' eating our words. While I'm still rooting for Clive Owen to take his turn in a few years once the Craig/ Broccoli connection inevitably dries up, I've seldom been so happy to be wrong: Craig gives Bond a rawness and intensity that, for all of Pierce Brosnan's undeniable charm in the role, has been missing ever since the vastly underrated Timothy Dalton strapped on the Walther PPK for two money-losing late 80s installments. Craig makes Martin Campbell's fully honorable attempt to rebuild Bond from the ground up an unqualified success; if you sat through The Sum of All Fears, the disastrous 2002 attempt to redefine Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan as a single Ben Affleck rather than a married-with-children Harrison Ford, you know what a dicey endeavor that reinventing an established character can be. Amazingly, Casino Royale, like Peter Jackson's brilliant do-over of King Kong from a year before, manages the heady task of both honoring its predecessors and correcting their mistakes: after Goldfinger in 1965, most of the Bond films--good, bad or indifferent--have been as ritualistic as Japanese kabuki theater (28 minutes into the flick? OK, time for the obligatory repartee with Moneypenney!) and have been, even at their best, relentlessly bloodless enterprises in both senses of the word. Over a quarter of a decade ago, Steven Spielberg pitched Indiana Jones to George Lucas by describing everyone's favorite fighting archaeologist as "better than Bond"; the result was three films that were "must-see moviegoing" rather than the "it's-there-and-it's-the-latest-so-what-the-heck" that such mediocre, by-the-numbers efforts as The Man With the Golden Gun and Moonraker had relegated the 007 films to being. Indy was no superhero...he was vulnerable, and felt pain, and Casino Royale's genius is that its Bond is still learning, makes BIG mistakes, and actually bleeds. (And bleeds, and bleeds. Make no mistake, parents, this isn't a PG-13 film at all but a hard R. If you haven't seen the documentary This Film Is Not Yet Rated, whose thesis is that the MPAA is far more lenient toward big studio efforts than small independent movies, this will convince you.) Eva Green is hands down THE best Bond girl of all time precisely because she's not a girl at all but a real woman... intelligent, multidimensional and able to give Bond as good as she gets, and I loved how this film, while remaining in the present day and being firmly rooted in the War on Terror rather than the Cold War, works as Bond's "origin story", explaining everything from his casual/ cruel attitude toward women (007 somehow qualifies as both the honorary president of the Playboy Club AND the He-Man Women-Haters Club) to his special fondness for Aston-Martins to even where the film series' famous "bloody iris" trademark comes from. (And the movie answers a few relevant fan questions, too. If you ever wondered whether Judi Dench's M has any kind of personal life, you'll find out...if you look closely.) Nearly everything works, including the risky Texas hold-em poker sequence that takes up a substantial part of the running time, but for many the most memorable sequence will be Bond's torture scene, which recalls memories of Goldfinger's legendary "laser bit" but turns up the intensity; if men in the earlier movie's audience crossed their legs in discomfort, they're likely to twist them like pretzels during THIS variant. Two more elements that place Casino Royale on the same rarified plateau as Goldfinger and its predecessor From Russia With Love is that all three are the only films in the entire Bond series that are viable Ten Best entries for their respective years, and all three of them, to refer to a very funny play that Casino Royale makes on one of 007's signature lines, are the Bond films virtually guaranteed to leave their audiences both shaken AND stirred.… Expand
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9
JakeP.Jan 30, 2007
Very good, a bit more gadgetry could have been added, but overall a great addition to the Bond collection!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
JavierMar 21, 2007
I actually enjoyed Bronsan as Bond, especially in Goldeneye, but Die Another Day was "Batman and Robin" bad. This movie in my eye resurrects the franchise. While no one can top Connery's Bond, both dashing and brutal, Craig's I actually enjoyed Bronsan as Bond, especially in Goldeneye, but Die Another Day was "Batman and Robin" bad. This movie in my eye resurrects the franchise. While no one can top Connery's Bond, both dashing and brutal, Craig's interpretation recalls those qualities. People forget how ammoral Connery's Bond could be. Eva Green is riveting, rewatch her scenes with Bond and you will see how nuanced her performance is. The early action scene at the construction site is amazing, but the movie doesn't rely on overblown chase scenes to create tension. The movie is a tad too long, but at least the length allows Craig and Green to convey a real realtionship. I highly recommend this movie (Who ever said MI3 was better is nuts or is Tom Cruise - which may be the samething)… Expand
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9
JimmyLoneWolfMar 24, 2007
I really can't believe some of the comments I'm reading on here...what stupidity! First off, this movie BLOWS Spy Game out of the water, to the idiot who said this was trying to be like that film by making us "feel" for a spy. I really can't believe some of the comments I'm reading on here...what stupidity! First off, this movie BLOWS Spy Game out of the water, to the idiot who said this was trying to be like that film by making us "feel" for a spy. Second, I get a HUGE kick out of the girl who claims this movie "seemed to be all about FX" when the movie that came out right before it was Die Another Day, the worst example of overblown special effects I've seen in years. Finally, a shout out to the guy who says Live and Let Die (with its "gadgets") is "what REAL Bond films are about," conveniently ignoring From Russia With Love and the other SUPERIOR Connery films that wisely held back on overusing the gimmicks. As for Casino Royale, it was exceptionally good, and truly rivals the Connery years. Daniel Craig is perfect in the role, the cinematography is stunningly good, the romance feels real for a change, and the action is as harsh and brutal as it has ever been. People who don't like this movie simply have no idea what constitutes a "classic" film. Instead, they'll take the clunky camerawork and cheesy, pun-laden "humor" of the Brosnan films simply because there's giant lasers and CGI involved. This film will prove to film lovers that the state of cinema is just fine, its the state of mainstream audiences' minds that we should REALLY worried about. This is the best Bond film in nearly 30 years, its just too bad noone watches movies from 30 years ago so they have no idea what a GOOD Bond film is like. Wake up people, this is the real deal.… Expand
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9
BrianGJan 5, 2008
Perhaps the finest Bond film since Goldfinger. I have to agree that the Bond franchise was desperately in need of a "re-boot" given the ludicrous and wholly unsatisfying attempts of the recent films. Daniel Craig gives a superb performance, Perhaps the finest Bond film since Goldfinger. I have to agree that the Bond franchise was desperately in need of a "re-boot" given the ludicrous and wholly unsatisfying attempts of the recent films. Daniel Craig gives a superb performance, delivering intense, rugged sophistication. The scene on the train to Montenegro, in which Bond first meets Vesper and they quickly launch into their subtle verbal sparring provides fascinating insight into Bond… Expand
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GerdemaFeb 15, 2008
Cunning, great acting performance from Daniel Craig.
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amicusNov 17, 2006
Well-crafted movie. A realistic portrayal of a secret agent with the flamboyance and wit only James could deliver.
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WillW.Nov 18, 2006
The Bond team should be applauded for some excellent decisions - they know they're working with the best of the source material so they stick closely to it. The book isn't the most fast paced so they get Paul Haggis in to beef up The Bond team should be applauded for some excellent decisions - they know they're working with the best of the source material so they stick closely to it. The book isn't the most fast paced so they get Paul Haggis in to beef up the dialogue (and does it show). And they pick a fantastic Bond. Daniel Craig is closer to the Bond of the novels than arguably even Sean Connery, and the supporting cast is uniformly excellent. The only slight annoyance is Mads Mikkelson doesn't get enough screen time as Le Chiffre, although he more than makes up for it with the magnetic torture scene. Martin Campbell's saved the franchise again.… Expand
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PetroMNov 22, 2006
Never was a fan of 007 movies, but this fun definitely rocks! Enjoyed it alot. Dench and Craig delivery an excellent performance. Well balanced.
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LindaS.Nov 20, 2006
There was trouble with people rating this movie because Metacritic was experiencing difficulties [Ed: thanks for noticing, Linda!]. But the problems of gone and the votes are poring in. For good reason too, this bond is one of the very best. There was trouble with people rating this movie because Metacritic was experiencing difficulties [Ed: thanks for noticing, Linda!]. But the problems of gone and the votes are poring in. For good reason too, this bond is one of the very best. Daniel Craig shows serious pontential as our modern 6th James Bond. A great action packed romance movie all around. Has everything a bond movie needs. However, they all need more blood, i say the next one, go for the R Rating.… Expand
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LoriP.Nov 25, 2006
Not sure how you give it less than 7.5, but not a perfect 10 either. But the movie doesn't have to be perfect to be a must see. I seriously doubted their ability to revive this franchise, but like Batman Begins, going back to the Not sure how you give it less than 7.5, but not a perfect 10 either. But the movie doesn't have to be perfect to be a must see. I seriously doubted their ability to revive this franchise, but like Batman Begins, going back to the beginning works here with a younger, stonger Bond - did I mention darker?? I love that Bond is dark. He is much more human than his predecessors in that he stumbles, bleeds, falls, etc and at the same time is the back to basics - a stone cold killer. He's an assassin. That's what he is at the bottom line although we're usually glossing that over with sex and witticisms which are are missing here, and I for one did not miss them. The only misstep was the super long ending. The romance really took us down a different path too quickly, to a different Bond, to a different story and just seemed a 15-20 minute setup for the inevitable ending. That said... go see this movie! I know you gentlemen will enjoy the feisty, intelligent new Bond Girl so allow me my moment to say... ladies... ummm, naked Daniel Craig... worth the price of admission.… Expand
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Dr.YesNov 25, 2006
Ah, Russia's Vladimir Putin would be proud!!! Not sure why Time and the Miami Herald are so off in left field on this one. It's more realistic and more violent. The acting is much better too as is the story. He is not suave campy Ah, Russia's Vladimir Putin would be proud!!! Not sure why Time and the Miami Herald are so off in left field on this one. It's more realistic and more violent. The acting is much better too as is the story. He is not suave campy movie Bond...he's real world "I kill people...so part of myself is dying". Not sure how hard of a concept that is to understand. I do have to say the end is a downshift, but necessary to advance the Bond character to more depth in future movies. Amazing timing with the real world ex-KGB spy's poisoning in Britain. The world is slowly drawing up sides again, Keep up the REALITY that we got in this movie...so much better. No more spacy laser beam Bond. Amen.… Expand
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GlenCDec 1, 2006
As young boys back in the Connery days of Dr. No and Goldfinger, we used to exchange James Bond movie cards. Big thing back then. I've been a lifelong Bond fan, but I must confess that the recent films were beginning to lose me. Too As young boys back in the Connery days of Dr. No and Goldfinger, we used to exchange James Bond movie cards. Big thing back then. I've been a lifelong Bond fan, but I must confess that the recent films were beginning to lose me. Too many techno gadgets, explosions, and hyperaction left us wondering if we were watching actors on film or video games. Thank God (and Ms Broccoli) for the newest Bond. I must say this already ranks among my very favorites, and IMO, one of the best movies of 2006. Daniel Craig is awesome. His character reminds me of Connery, perhaps a bit more vulnerable and less humorous and charming, but we understand this is the beginning all over again. As for those critics who say the movie was too long, didn't their mothers tell them NOT to smoke crack? God forbid that we should ever be given a 90-minute Bond movie!… Expand
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KevinD.Dec 29, 2006
This was a new kind of Bond film. Not all that bad. In fact highly enjoyable. It had some old elements such as the opening fight scene and the final scene, with the added effects of the black and white opener and the great lack of MI-6. Sean This was a new kind of Bond film. Not all that bad. In fact highly enjoyable. It had some old elements such as the opening fight scene and the final scene, with the added effects of the black and white opener and the great lack of MI-6. Sean Connery Bond lovers will love it, Pierce's followers won't as much. Although I was disappointed that he was only with one woman and that she had to die, it was still a solid good ol' action flick.… Expand
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JBDec 7, 2006
Great job. Film: excellent, if a little over long. Craig: Superb, the best since Connery. I notice that almost all the low marks in the user comments come from people who seem to have missed the point of this film, no gadgets, no Q etc etc. Great job. Film: excellent, if a little over long. Craig: Superb, the best since Connery. I notice that almost all the low marks in the user comments come from people who seem to have missed the point of this film, no gadgets, no Q etc etc. This is a prequal film to all other Bonds after all, did they not even notice the entire start of the film being about him getting promoted to 00 status? As for the person who suggests Steven Segal as a Bond. I mean really. A sadly overweight, aging (he has many years on Brosnan, and people thought him too old) American has-been, it would be charity to offer him a bit part as a hench man, let alone Bond. Well done, with that one suggestion you validate everything else you wrote as coming from someone totally clueless. Hurrah to Craig for reinventing the franchise.… Expand
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A.MartinezDec 8, 2006
One of the best Bond films. More mature, visceral, overall a great movie.
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RachelL.Dec 30, 2007
The lack of gadgets shows that bond has been brought into the 21st century and is the most believable of all of the Bond movies so far. By having female characters with power rather than put into the movie as a sex object or for decoration The lack of gadgets shows that bond has been brought into the 21st century and is the most believable of all of the Bond movies so far. By having female characters with power rather than put into the movie as a sex object or for decoration it shows the realism of the film. I don't think it should have been a pg13 as many of the scenes would have been unsuitable for a young aged viewer as they are extremely violent or of a sexual nature. Daniel Craig will improve as this character as he continues to play Bond. He has also bought a coldness to the character, never scene before, but commonly referenced to in the book.… Expand
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EvertH.Feb 13, 2007
I decided to see it, despite the circumstance that I thought Clive Owen was better fit for the role. I am an avid Bond fan, have seen every movie more than once, and I was sitting on the edge of my chair all the time. Hands down one of the I decided to see it, despite the circumstance that I thought Clive Owen was better fit for the role. I am an avid Bond fan, have seen every movie more than once, and I was sitting on the edge of my chair all the time. Hands down one of the best (if not the best...) Bond-movies that have come out. Gone are the silly gadgets and silly humor (although I hope a little bit more sardonic humor will return), not the typical ending of the franchise that ends up with the pretty woman in some unqiue position, no Q unrealisticly traveling around with all of his equipment and staff. Just down to earth honest action. The only I could see is that Judi Dench was still playing M (how can that be if the series just started over?). I can't wait till the next one (and I understand it's going to be another 2 year wait).… Expand
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EricY.Mar 19, 2007
I haven't seen a James Bond movie in a long time, but this was a choice on my flight to Europe. I thought that the action was awesome from the beginning and I really enjoyed it. Poker is huge right now, so kudos to the filmmaker for I haven't seen a James Bond movie in a long time, but this was a choice on my flight to Europe. I thought that the action was awesome from the beginning and I really enjoyed it. Poker is huge right now, so kudos to the filmmaker for cashing in on that as well. What a great movie!… Expand
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JakeE.Mar 22, 2007
I never thought it possible that this series could be rejjuvenated that way that it was, but drawing on, and in the process updating, the original book Ian Fleming Bond novel of Casino Royale re-created the character as Fleming originally I never thought it possible that this series could be rejjuvenated that way that it was, but drawing on, and in the process updating, the original book Ian Fleming Bond novel of Casino Royale re-created the character as Fleming originally saw him. And for all those Daniel Craig doubters, he does more than silence the critics as a more rogue Bond.… Expand
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DARMar 30, 2007
Thought this was the best Bond movie in the series to date. From what I can tell, those who really didn't like this movie prefer the "formula" that Bond films have followed for the most part - diabolical villain with a doomsday device Thought this was the best Bond movie in the series to date. From what I can tell, those who really didn't like this movie prefer the "formula" that Bond films have followed for the most part - diabolical villain with a doomsday device and/or plan for world domination, to be thwarted by a 007 who cheats death and injury while holding a gun in one hand and a beautiful woman in the other. While those films have their own entertainment value, elements of suspense and a plot that leaves you with unanswered questions were not their hallmarks. Casino Royale takes a much different turn, one which I think is for the better, by being a smarter Bond film in that regard - devoid of the run-of-the-mill sequences that didn't set the previous Bond films apart from any other action flick. And, aside from MoneyPenny and Q not being present, all of the other standard Bond film elements that make the series unique are still in place, albeit more subtlely introduced than most Bond fans are used to. Craig played the role as well as Connery ever has, presenting a much more well-rounded character than we're used to seeing. All in all, a fantastic 007 film, perhaps only topped (or equaled, I should say) by From Russia with Love, Goldfinger, and On Her Majesty's Secret Service.… Expand
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RussW.Apr 7, 2007
I entirely agree with JimmyLoneWolf's review. At least somebody has half a brain out there. 1, 2, or 3 stars? What the hell is going on with you people? Don't you know what a good film is? Jesus Christ! Casino Royale rocked... Eva I entirely agree with JimmyLoneWolf's review. At least somebody has half a brain out there. 1, 2, or 3 stars? What the hell is going on with you people? Don't you know what a good film is? Jesus Christ! Casino Royale rocked... Eva Green was, and remains, one of the only Bond girls I have ever been able to believe (the only other one being Pussy Galore, despite the name).… Expand
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MartinS.Apr 8, 2007
This is the James Bond that Ian Fleming had in mind.
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MattRDec 29, 2009
Finally, a Bond movie to actually get the character of Bond right. Not even Sean Connery played Bond so accurately as Daniel Craig, who played him as Ian Flemming visioned... cold, broken, yet witty and clever. A lot of these negative Finally, a Bond movie to actually get the character of Bond right. Not even Sean Connery played Bond so accurately as Daniel Craig, who played him as Ian Flemming visioned... cold, broken, yet witty and clever. A lot of these negative reviews state that they've gotten rid of the cars, gadgets, Q, Moneypenny... good! That's the best part about this movie - it's fresh, exciting, unpredictable. The last several Bond movies have followed a formula that made them feel like the same movie each time. Other negative reviews say that the plot made no sense, but that's far from the film's fault, it says more about those people than the film. The way the plot comes together at the end is amazing and is story-telling mastery that the series has never been able to achieve in the past. Action scenes were incredible, particularly the parkour chase in the beginning and the Venice shootout at the end. Acting was great, especially Eva Green (playing Vesper Lynd) and Daniel Craig. I really grew close to the characters, making the plot twist all the more shocking. The one negative thing I have to say about this movie is that it feels like it drags on a little in the middle, and all the more if you don't understand how poker works. It's still completely engaging and entertaining all the way through, but the action-drought in the middle may slightly bother some. Only a very minor complaint.… Expand
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RobertBAug 3, 2009
Great movie! Best Bond in a long time. This is how Bond should be.
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BaqirT.Nov 15, 2006
Superb! Thrilling action, especially in Madagascar and at Miami Airport. Bond Girls are lovely (as usaul), especially Caterina Murino.
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VladA.Nov 17, 2006
Totally new direction for Bond and I like it a lot. I knew Daniel Craig was the right man for the job since Layer Cake, but he managed to exceed my expectations. He added layers upon layers of humanity to the character which, in the hands of Totally new direction for Bond and I like it a lot. I knew Daniel Craig was the right man for the job since Layer Cake, but he managed to exceed my expectations. He added layers upon layers of humanity to the character which, in the hands of a good director, should keep the series fresh for as long as he is still Bond. Btw, Jojo C., by more qualified, do you mean better looking or better actors? Yes, it's a rhetorical question.… Expand
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StarfoxNov 18, 2006
Welcome Back Mr. Bond. Like an old friend who has been gone for far too long, James Bond is back - darker, more realistic and more fun than he has been in a long long time. This is a fantastic reboot to the series and demonstrates a bold new Welcome Back Mr. Bond. Like an old friend who has been gone for far too long, James Bond is back - darker, more realistic and more fun than he has been in a long long time. This is a fantastic reboot to the series and demonstrates a bold new direction (and continuous storyline) for films to come.… Expand
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BillC.Nov 21, 2006
Just about a perfect film to turn around a series that had grown into a parody of itself. A story that can be followed and action that is not so dependant on outragous gimmicks.Those who doubted Daniel Craigs ability should shut up now. Just about a perfect film to turn around a series that had grown into a parody of itself. A story that can be followed and action that is not so dependant on outragous gimmicks.Those who doubted Daniel Craigs ability should shut up now. Those who feel the film lacks enough comedy have no appreciation for the original series and should stick with Austin Powers on DVD. Bond is back and it's a good thing Brosnan has hung up his license to kill. Bill C.… Expand
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[Anonymous]Nov 20, 2006
Good movie. Good action. Good versatility in the sequences of love, casino scenes and action. and that signiture "bond...james bond" was in there which sealed it. i like the old-school classic-ness of the movie without the over-the-top Good movie. Good action. Good versatility in the sequences of love, casino scenes and action. and that signiture "bond...james bond" was in there which sealed it. i like the old-school classic-ness of the movie without the over-the-top futuristic things that plagued the last few bond movies.....BUT...that movie was a little too long...(that's why not a 10).… Expand
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NeilW.Nov 26, 2006
Finall, there's a Bond who shows us what it means to actually kill: it's brutal, it's very physical, and it devours your soul. Craig is just that. Apart from that, we finally get to see some true acting (just think of Pierce Finall, there's a Bond who shows us what it means to actually kill: it's brutal, it's very physical, and it devours your soul. Craig is just that. Apart from that, we finally get to see some true acting (just think of Pierce Brosnan's "I have only one facial expression" stance...). One point deducted for extremely annoying Sony product placement. But still - go and see it!… Expand
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AnnaNov 27, 2006
Craig is impressive as Bond. And finally a Bond story worth telling is brought to the screen. N,o he's not Connery, but he's close.
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ChrisH.Nov 27, 2006
I loved this movie, acion scenes were great. Bond got his ass kicked but still saved the day..almost. Daniel Craig is the man. Go all in and see this movie while it is still in theatres.
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RaphaelNov 28, 2006
This is one of the best Bond-Movies ever to hit the big screen. For me it is right up there with Goldfinger, Goldeneye and a view to a kill. Daniel did a great job, and wore his tux just as nicely as Sean would do!! And whoever mentions the This is one of the best Bond-Movies ever to hit the big screen. For me it is right up there with Goldfinger, Goldeneye and a view to a kill. Daniel did a great job, and wore his tux just as nicely as Sean would do!! And whoever mentions the lack of gadgets again, is an utter fool! BOND IS NOT ABOUT GADGETS, BUT ABOUT PURE ACTION AND THRILLING MOVIES!… Expand
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RachitS.Nov 29, 2006
Not bad for a new bond movie. I really like the action. its pretty raw. But the ending is a little wiered.
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DerekG.Nov 29, 2006
This was EXACTLY what Bond needed. I always thought the newer ones were kind of cheesy. This new one is exactly the de-cheesing the franchise demanded to stay alive. The way the book imagined him.
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ANeilNov 30, 2006
Best bond in decades. Funny that the people who panned it basically complained that all the cliches werent included. Hey, how about the fact that it was the way flemming actually wanted Bond to be? Connery's early movies didn't Best bond in decades. Funny that the people who panned it basically complained that all the cliches werent included. Hey, how about the fact that it was the way flemming actually wanted Bond to be? Connery's early movies didn't have all the silly gadgets either. Back then they were actually realistic. A garrot in a watch? Okay. An invisible car? Gimme a break. Great to see them go back to a raw Bond, the way a secret agent should be. 3 or 4 movies like this and Craig will become Connery's equal.… Expand
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UDDec 11, 2006
Daniel Craig puts on a tour de force performance rivaled only by the historical importance of the Connery era Bond films. The filmmakers have taken the lure of the Bond universe as a base to create not only the best action film of 2006, but Daniel Craig puts on a tour de force performance rivaled only by the historical importance of the Connery era Bond films. The filmmakers have taken the lure of the Bond universe as a base to create not only the best action film of 2006, but also, far and away the best 007 movie ever. Everything here seems to work perfectly and the producers were right to relieve Bond of his silly, cartoonish persona in favor of an actual human side with depth. All in all, a movie not to be missed.… Expand
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JustinP.Dec 10, 2006
A superb prequel, with great plot, action, and intrigue - even if at times it seems somewhat predictable. However, the filmmakers have taken the film in a brave direction, opting to have a less suave Bond, a gritty man with more under the A superb prequel, with great plot, action, and intrigue - even if at times it seems somewhat predictable. However, the filmmakers have taken the film in a brave direction, opting to have a less suave Bond, a gritty man with more under the surface - the man before he became the legend. The classic James Bond theme music is also conspicuously absent from the film until the climax - the moment when Bond starts stepping into the shoes of the 007 that we have all come to know and love. Beautiful!… Expand
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StephenMDec 2, 2006
Bound to be an instant Bond classic. Detractors will say no CGI or gadgets makes a Bond movie not, but they have no roots in the franchise. Go back and watch Dr. No, From Russia with Love and On her Majisty's Secret Service. Realism, Bound to be an instant Bond classic. Detractors will say no CGI or gadgets makes a Bond movie not, but they have no roots in the franchise. Go back and watch Dr. No, From Russia with Love and On her Majisty's Secret Service. Realism, limited gadgets and great stories. Just like Casion Royale.… Expand
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G.C.Dec 20, 2006
Simply amazing. good fun.
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JackB.Dec 23, 2006
More than a good addition to the Bond series; an excellent film.
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AndyS.Dec 3, 2006
I was very impressed with the movie in nearly all aspects, especially Daniel Craig, who is phenomenal as Bond. I think Ian Fleming would be proud of this movie.
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PeterB.Dec 4, 2006
This movie is one of the best Bonds films ever! Craig is brilliant as Bond, bringing new life to a dying character. Eva Green and Mads Mikkelsen are equally impressive as one of the only intelligent Bond girls and one of the creepiest This movie is one of the best Bonds films ever! Craig is brilliant as Bond, bringing new life to a dying character. Eva Green and Mads Mikkelsen are equally impressive as one of the only intelligent Bond girls and one of the creepiest villains respectively. Judi Dench is also magnificent as M. The only complaint is that the film might be a bit overlong.… Expand
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NicholasB.Dec 8, 2006
I have never been a Bond fan, ever. The last Bond movie I saw in the theatres was Goldeneye and to say the least it was disappointing. The thing that makes this movie great is that Daniel Craig plays Bond as a secret agent first and a tuxedo I have never been a Bond fan, ever. The last Bond movie I saw in the theatres was Goldeneye and to say the least it was disappointing. The thing that makes this movie great is that Daniel Craig plays Bond as a secret agent first and a tuxedo wearing, womanizing cad second. I like to think of this movie as the "Bourne Identity" Bond.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
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DanaM.Dec 8, 2006
Great entertainment. Worth the $10 I paid to see it. Slows a little in the middle and happens to be a tad long but still is a must-see if you like Bond movies. Don't pay attention to the nay-sayers.
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JoshL.Jan 11, 2007
Another James Bond movie made, another classic to add to your video collection. Nowadays, who isn't a fan of James Bond? This time, we have a new actor in the place of James, a British man by the name of Daniel Craig. I believe that he Another James Bond movie made, another classic to add to your video collection. Nowadays, who isn't a fan of James Bond? This time, we have a new actor in the place of James, a British man by the name of Daniel Craig. I believe that he did a fantastic job as the main role, and they are already filming a new Bond movie with the same actor. Casino Royale is very different from your average Jame Bond flick. The action isn't as cartoonish, and the movie has a much darker feel than the others. For some, it's good news, and for others, it's bad news. First the bad news, some girls will not have a fun time watching the movie. As they seldom look for dark, violent, and serious movies. I think that Casino Royale may have lost some female James Bond fans. I also think that the movie is missing a bit of emotion, as the new Bond is nearly emotionless. Which isn't a bad thing, I don't mind empty emotions in my movies, as long as the storyline and acting make up for it. But I'm not talking about my personal preference. The bottom line is that this year's Bond, is nothing like the previous Bond. Some will like him, and some will not. It all depends on what you expect from a movie. In a nutshell, the one's who crave emotions from the main characters, may not like this movie. The ones who like more action, less talk, this film is for you. I have a lot more to tell you on the good side of the film, before we get into the actual plot. There isn't as much action in the movie as all of the other Bond films, but it's more violent and ferocious. The storyline might be a little hard to follow, but after a few viewings, you gain the complete knowledge. Think of it like this: Each time you watch the film, you learn something that you didn't know from the previous viewing. A good amount of the movie takes place at a poker table. It may be a bit boring for some, but not for me. After all, who doesn't like to sit down and watch a very dramatic version of World Series of Poker? I didn't think so. The film takes place in many different locations. From the Bahamas, all the way down to Europe. The locations make the theme of the movie change pretty rapidly. So why is the movie 2 and a half hours long? It's simply because a lot of things take place in the movie, various action scenes, information being discovered, which all leads from one thing to another, until the very dramatic ending, which I won't tell you. The main villian is very strange, and his role is more realistic than any other 007 film. What makes this film more realistic than the others, is how all of the events can actually happen in reality. Nothing over the top, and the events are similar to real life. No other action film I have seen contains such realistic events. Overall, this is one of the better films of the James Bond series. It is one of the most unique action films I have seen, and I would definately recommend it to action movie fans, and James Bond fans. People from all over the world can enjoy this film, as it is likeable by many people. Casino Royale has been in theatres for 2 weeks, and has made a total of $94.2 Million, and is one of the most successful Bond films. If you are going to see an action movie in theatres, what can be better than this? Nothing.… Expand
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zephosf.Oct 27, 2007
I can't help but laugh at the low rankings here that procede to call Craig a betrayal of the Bond name. You fellows may need to actually do your research. Much like Batman Begins, this revitalizes a character who had become something of I can't help but laugh at the low rankings here that procede to call Craig a betrayal of the Bond name. You fellows may need to actually do your research. Much like Batman Begins, this revitalizes a character who had become something of a cartoon back to his gritty human roots. That alone made this a great film, but of course everything else is carried out with finesse. Its telling when the crd agme central to the movie is more exciting than the generic over the top combat seen in the recent Bonds prior to this. Bond is alive again, and I couldn't be happier.… Expand
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JohnB.Mar 15, 2007
Gotta love the old-fashioned Bond fans trying to trash this film. I rate it for what it is: an outstanding thriller. The makers threw away all the Bond cliches and focused on making a terrific action film instead. Who gives a damn if DanielGotta love the old-fashioned Bond fans trying to trash this film. I rate it for what it is: an outstanding thriller. The makers threw away all the Bond cliches and focused on making a terrific action film instead. Who gives a damn if Daniel Craig isn't a typical Bond, which is the only criticism I think can be mustered against him? He is fantastic in this role. Eva Green is a perfect Bond Girl, extremely sexy while being more than Bond's match in wits. Ignore the trolls ripping this film unless they come up with criticisms beyond comparisons to the tired Bond films of the last several years; this is a fantastic move and will be remembered as one of the decade's very best action films.… Expand
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DavidS.Oct 31, 2008
This has to be amongst the best Bond films, if not the best. I'm re-watching them all to try and decide exactly where it sits, but it's definitely top three material. I've read through these reviews, and it's amazing. The This has to be amongst the best Bond films, if not the best. I'm re-watching them all to try and decide exactly where it sits, but it's definitely top three material. I've read through these reviews, and it's amazing. The anti- ones are riddled with spelling mistakes, refer to Craig as being 'un-Bond like', want a return to Moore-esque cartoonery, complain about product placement, complain about the shortage of gadgets, and complain about missing characters who weren't even in the book. Craig's portrayal is the truest to the books yet. Flemming's Bond was never the suave Rat-Pack connery Bond, or Moore's Seventies playboy caricature (incidentally my favourite Bond, after Craig). Product placement has always been there. Jinx's dreadful car in Die Another Day. The car Moore took from a showroom in The Man with the Golden Gun. Brosnan's Omega watch. Moore's Seiko watches. Smirnoff vodka. In any case, branded products were an importnat indicator of Bond's tastes and social standing in the books. There are plenty of gadgets in the film, but our expectations have gone up. EVERYBODY these days has a mobile phone, probably with a built in camera, maybe GPS, access on their computer to satelite images of anywhere in the world, etc etc. It's just harder to impress us with gadgets these days. The gadgets he does have are far more beleivable, and his having them is easier to accept-he isn't 'coincidentally' issued with exactly the right tool for the any unlikely scenario he finds himself facing. Read the books. Re-watch the films. And if you're going to critisise, at least put a little thought into it.… Expand
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9
AndyC.Nov 15, 2006
James Bond is ultra cool again at last. He's arguably not been this cool since Goldfinger. The whole cast are excellent, but Daniel Craig is outstanding. He even manages to make Pierce Brosnan seem faintly preposterous and I was a fan James Bond is ultra cool again at last. He's arguably not been this cool since Goldfinger. The whole cast are excellent, but Daniel Craig is outstanding. He even manages to make Pierce Brosnan seem faintly preposterous and I was a fan of Brosnan. Craig is aided by some cracking dialogue that capture just the right level of sardonic wit - but without the cheese! My big worry is that without a decent director, Higgis on script polishing and no Flemming book to work from, Bond 22 will be a much lesser affair. But that's another story. Casino Royale is alot better than I expected and leaps directly into my top five Bond films, maybe even top three.… Expand
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9
VR.Nov 17, 2006
This movie is perhaps THE closest to any of the Bond books and this Bond completely fits the tux. In this outing it's more about the man than the mission and for those who can forgive the absence of laser-guided anythings and This movie is perhaps THE closest to any of the Bond books and this Bond completely fits the tux. In this outing it's more about the man than the mission and for those who can forgive the absence of laser-guided anythings and concentrate on what made the agent who he is - then you will not be disappointed in the least.… Expand
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9
DrewK.Nov 22, 2006
A captivating portrayal of Mr. Bond. While many elements of the film took a turn for the grittier, actually seeing Bond at true moments of weakness was a breath of fresh air. Daniel Craig played the character quite well. There were several A captivating portrayal of Mr. Bond. While many elements of the film took a turn for the grittier, actually seeing Bond at true moments of weakness was a breath of fresh air. Daniel Craig played the character quite well. There were several lines which made me groan (most by Eva Green's character Vesper), but for the most part the film stepped away from the cliche'd dialogue so relentlessly present in all other 007 flicks. A+.… Expand
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9
PaulE.Nov 23, 2006
The best Bond movie in many years. I had given up on the franchise after the last several Bond movies, which were all about special effects and pyrotechnics. Casino Royale actually has a story, good characterizations, strong acting, amazing The best Bond movie in many years. I had given up on the franchise after the last several Bond movies, which were all about special effects and pyrotechnics. Casino Royale actually has a story, good characterizations, strong acting, amazing stunts, and great fun. Daniel Craig is a terrific 007, without the camp and charactature of some of the others who have had the role. The only downside for me was the unnecessary torture scene. Also, the length could have been pared a little. Overall, a fantastic film.… Expand
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9
YohannesT.Nov 25, 2006
Outstanding Movie. The only thing I would have like to see move is probably a little more gadgets. James Bond wouldn't be James Bond with out the gadgets.
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9
Andy92Sep 15, 2010
i really enjoyed this bond film i wasn't sure about Daniel Craig as bond at first but he actually performed very well in this film. the plot of the film was also well written better then a lot of other bond films
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9
Andys_ReviewsOct 7, 2012
There is quite a lot of action before things focus on the Casino; all of this is well done and features much of the stunt work in the film. I have to say it does appear to get a little lost once the main focus of the film is established. OnceThere is quite a lot of action before things focus on the Casino; all of this is well done and features much of the stunt work in the film. I have to say it does appear to get a little lost once the main focus of the film is established. Once we do get there the scenes in and around the Casino are quite compelling and it is here that we actually get a feeling for how Daniel Craig portrays Bond. He has vulnerabilities that make him appear more human and this in turn gives the audience a chance to understand his motivations. I must admit I really enjoyed Craig… Expand
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9
JudddyOct 4, 2010
Wow! I loved the Sean Connery movies and since then they seem to have deteriorated. This film is definite proof that the Bond series is not lost. A different type of Bond, played by Daniel Craig, was what the franchise needed and theWow! I loved the Sean Connery movies and since then they seem to have deteriorated. This film is definite proof that the Bond series is not lost. A different type of Bond, played by Daniel Craig, was what the franchise needed and the storyline was intriguing throughout the film. Even the one-liners and old Bond jokes which made the original films to entertaining and memorable are present in this film, much to my delight. You can't miss this film if you're a James Bond fan, and even if you're not, you'll still love it anyway.… Expand
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9
asylumspadezNov 26, 2011
Daniel Craig is a great addition to the many actors that played Bond before him and he was wonderful in this film. It can get a little dull but overall the action sequences and the film as a whole was well worth watching and one of the bestDaniel Craig is a great addition to the many actors that played Bond before him and he was wonderful in this film. It can get a little dull but overall the action sequences and the film as a whole was well worth watching and one of the best in the Bond series.… Expand
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9
TokyochuchuOct 26, 2012
Casino Royale is one of the best 007 movies. Daniel Craig makes for an excellent Bond, lending both raw emotion and ice-cold psychopathic detachment all in one go. That's quite a feat! The blistering action, stunning locations and gorgeousCasino Royale is one of the best 007 movies. Daniel Craig makes for an excellent Bond, lending both raw emotion and ice-cold psychopathic detachment all in one go. That's quite a feat! The blistering action, stunning locations and gorgeous woman don't hurt the experience either.… Expand
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9
Smartine7Oct 24, 2011
Director Martin Campbell revitalizes the Bond series with this action-packed prequel. After the cinematic disaster that was "Die Another Day", long-time fans of the famous double-O agent are rewarded for their faithfulness. Daniel CraigDirector Martin Campbell revitalizes the Bond series with this action-packed prequel. After the cinematic disaster that was "Die Another Day", long-time fans of the famous double-O agent are rewarded for their faithfulness. Daniel Craig validates his selection as the next actor to portray Bond by delivering a fantastic performance and subsequently propels himself to the top of the "Best Bond" list. Craig's Bond is younger, stronger, and colder than ever. But the women are just as beautiful, the villains just as cruel, and the cities just as grand. Although the plot features a high-stakes poker game, this movie is no gamble. See it, buy it, watch. Over and over.… Expand
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9
CRLAug 4, 2011
Casino Royale was an excellent film in almost every aspect. Daniel Craig makes a new Bond, darker and gritter than his predecessors, and undeniably the best since the original. The plot is suspenseful and detailed, though near the end itCasino Royale was an excellent film in almost every aspect. Daniel Craig makes a new Bond, darker and gritter than his predecessors, and undeniably the best since the original. The plot is suspenseful and detailed, though near the end it loses some steam. Still, the ending makes Royale the beginning of (hopefully) something great, and not just a standalone thriller.… Expand
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9
jos95Dec 11, 2012
Before seeing this movie, I hadn't seen any other Bond films before, but I knew of the conventions all too well. This new spin on Bond gives us a flawed character that can fail who the audience can root for, which is a refreshing change. TheBefore seeing this movie, I hadn't seen any other Bond films before, but I knew of the conventions all too well. This new spin on Bond gives us a flawed character that can fail who the audience can root for, which is a refreshing change. The plot is engaging even when there's no action. I didn't know poker scenes could be so suspenseful, and I can't tell one poker tile from the other! The dialogue is sharp and witty, and there are several quotable and memorable lines in this movie. Daniel Craig may not be the smoothest Bond, but he's perfect for this new take on the character. Eva Green makes an excellent Bond girl, and she has great chemistry with Craig. The only problem with the film is the underwritten villain. He's funding terrorism, but what are the terrorist's goals? He lacked a greater objective. Casino Royale had me completely sold to James Bond and left me wanting more.… Expand
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9
movie2187Jan 3, 2012
The Best Bond film ever,yes... the pacing is a little off in the second act and while the film is mostly superbly written, the romantic dialogue comes off as underwritten and tonally separate from the rest of the writing. Still, the firstThe Best Bond film ever,yes... the pacing is a little off in the second act and while the film is mostly superbly written, the romantic dialogue comes off as underwritten and tonally separate from the rest of the writing. Still, the first action set piece is one of the best ever and the action sequences are smartly edited with a clear cohesiveness that is hard to find in modern actin films (See the sequel for an example)… Expand
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9
MonsieurEamesJan 23, 2013
The best Bond movie in the franchise, in my opinion. Casino Royale is filled with great action, great characters, and a great story line. It also features on of the best Bond girls, as she is actually given a character instead of just beingThe best Bond movie in the franchise, in my opinion. Casino Royale is filled with great action, great characters, and a great story line. It also features on of the best Bond girls, as she is actually given a character instead of just being there for her looks.… Expand
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9
axelkochNov 2, 2012
Simply the best Bond of all times. Also if Daniel Craig isn't the best actor I could imagine for this role, this is subordinate because of the great supporting actors. Eva Green is fetchingly good and Mads Mikkelsen as the antagonist is alsoSimply the best Bond of all times. Also if Daniel Craig isn't the best actor I could imagine for this role, this is subordinate because of the great supporting actors. Eva Green is fetchingly good and Mads Mikkelsen as the antagonist is also very well played. The whole film consists of so much rememberable action scenes, every single one is just awesome! The long break between this and the last Bond was essential, with the new techniques there are better visual and audio effects, that improve the whole movie quite much. 'Casino Royale' is a legendary story, the ending is absolutely great and I also enjoyed the poker game. It's a little step away from being a perfect action movie, but is surely one of the best I've seen in years and everything just works in this film. Simply awesome!… Expand
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9
MouthofSauronDec 9, 2012
Easily the best Bond film since the Connery days. "Casino Royale" marks a modern and exciting rebirth of a film icon, laying the foundations for what could be an excellent series.
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9
cameronmorewoodNov 12, 2012
Craig nails Bond. He has the intensity of Connery, but a small vulnerability can be sensed as well, a vulnerability that wasn't sensed when Connery was on screen. Craig may be the best Bond yet.
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9
NerungNov 22, 2012
A completely new take on the Bond franchise, Casino Royale reminds more of Bourne and Taken than the agent presented in the previous titles in the series. I really feel that this is a more convincing Bond and was a good thing to do as theA completely new take on the Bond franchise, Casino Royale reminds more of Bourne and Taken than the agent presented in the previous titles in the series. I really feel that this is a more convincing Bond and was a good thing to do as the ones before it have become way too cheesy and ridiculous (this is the first Bond I really enjoyed since Goldeneye). It is surprisingly violent, which I do not fully appreciate, but the story is interesting and the action breath-taking. The question remains whether this is still James Bond or if the producers would have been better of naming it differently as it is a clear break with the established concept in fundamental ways. If you do not take the "Bond" aspect too seriously and grant the film the chance to do something new, this is a truly excellent film.… Expand
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9
SwatiMar 22, 2013
Certainly the best Bond movie I've seen. Craig's portrayal of 007 is refreshing. The action and suspense was plenty, and so was engaging dialogue. The sequence at the casino was riveting. The acting all around was quite good. I had a greatCertainly the best Bond movie I've seen. Craig's portrayal of 007 is refreshing. The action and suspense was plenty, and so was engaging dialogue. The sequence at the casino was riveting. The acting all around was quite good. I had a great time all the way. Bond came across as very human, and I found myself caring about his fate for the first time. He was upfront, brutal and effective as a true agent would be, not a pretentious snob like he was displayed to be by Brosnan. The balance between action, dialogue, plot and romance was well maintained.… Expand
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9
TarHeelHomieDec 5, 2012
Probably my favorite Bond movie ever. Amazing action sequences, great storyline, and even a good plot twist help make this film incredibly enjoyable.
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