Movie Review: Casino Royale (2006) - James Bond Reborn - Page 2

His superiors have a better understanding of his base nature and value, although in this installment, ostensibly the first chronologically, they give him more leeway than might be allowed someone less destined for glory. As we know from the other films, the hands-off treatment becomes the norm with Bond. This is not unlike the treatment of Anakin Skywalker, and the influence does not end there unfortunately. While we are spared Jar Jar Binks, the romantic interlude might have been constructed by George Lucas' hand, although thankfully it does not last long, and the sense of foreboding overshadows the evanescent romance.

The romantic side of Bond is not incongrous with his character, but coming in this film post-climatic as it were, has the same effect as a post-orgasmic first date. Fortunately, later analysis reveals the love to have been a true one, if typically short-lived, and thus we can take a quantum of solace in the memory of young love. The satisfaction is diminished, however, by the stereotypical Bond girl portrayal of Vesper Lynd by Eva Green, the 'face of Armani'. The hint of 'damaged goods' from the Fleming novel is given up, and the inevitable betrayal, followed by redemption through sacrifice is given a cinematic flourish.

Significant changes are made to the political themes of the film, as compared to the novel, or the earlier film/television versions. Le Chiffre gives up his original low-paying job as paymaster of a trade union for master terrorist financier. This elevation works negatively to demean Bond, as Le Chiffre gloats that he is more valuable to Bond's paymasters than Bond himself. SMERSH is given the heave-ho, for a nameless syndicate, with Tarantino-style characters such as Mr. White.

The film-makers display an admirable knowledge of Bond lore, such as his antecedents, his preferences, a subtle reference to an absent Miss MoneyPenny, and in a sly nod to the 1954 television adaptation starring Barry Nelson, naming the local British agent Mathis, the name of the Vesper Lynd character in the television adaptation.

Article Author: Aaman Lamba

Aaman Lamba is a Blogcritics editor, as well as the Publisher of Desicritics.org, a Blogcritics network site covering media, politics, culture, sports and more with a global South Asian focus

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