Skyfall

Skyfall goes straight to the roots of James Bond without losing its edge in the process. This is the version with explosions, bruises, and unfinished business.

Bond is back at MI6, and this time it actually feels personal. The film revisits his past without turning it into a counseling session or slowing the story down. It deals with pain and loss, but it keeps one eye on the audience at all times. There is weight here, but never self-pity.

The opening takes its time, maybe a little too confidently, but once it settles in, the pacing becomes relentless. From that point on, the film moves with purpose and never feels bloated. The action scenes are sharp, fast, and, most importantly, clear.

Javier Bardem plays the villain with unsettling ease. Calm, composed but oh so lethal; he does not simply show up, he takes over. Visually, the film looks expensive in the best way, with bold locations and confident framing and the theme song (Adele - Skyfall) might just be one of the most iconic Bond songs ever made. The final act lands harder than most Bond films dare to attempt, choosing real stakes over safe thrills, and that choice pays off.

Sam Mendes is not afraid to let its hero bleed, physically and emotionally. Skyfall proves the franchise still has teeth, and Daniel Craig delivers another rock-solid Bond.