Agent M (Ralph Fiennes), head of the British organization MI6, can’t figure out what the “H” is wrong with Agent 007, James Bond (Daniel Craig). He’s in Mexico City and then in Rome creating all kinds of havoc. In addition to trying to keep Bond on a leash, M must also deal with an arrogant and ambitious new head of the Centre for the National Security, who believes M, 007 and the rest of MI6 are obsolete.
While he appreciates Agent M’s concerns, Bond, led by a secret communication unknown to M, sets out to unearth and destroy a sinister organization known as SPECTRE.
This film is not a Bond film at its best. While it opens with action, intrigue and sexual titillation, it drags throughout much of the over two-hour production. While I won’t divulge the story, but suffice it to say, you’ve seen it before.
One of the problems the Bond series suffers from is that when they were originally introduced over 50 years ago, the action, gadgets and sexual themes were unique and captivating. Today, thrilling movies with technological marvels are commonplace. Even the car chase scene in “Spectre” lacked excitement because the roads were clear, unlike other films today where chases are conducted weaving in and out of heavy traffic.
And with storylines and skirmishes that are no longer unique, the gadgets and 007 are pretty much all that is left. Because of the storyline, the devices are minimal—which leaves only 007. And although Craig’s performance is adequate, alone it is simply not enough.
As for cast diversity, “Spectre” receives a C+. Naomie Harris plays Eve Moneypenny, M’s assistant and the only starring person of color.
So what’s the verdict on “Spectre”? It gets a split review: See It for true 007 fans; Rent It for everyone else.
This film has a budget of $300 million, is 2 hours and 20 minutes in length and is PG-13 (for intense sequences of action and violence, some disturbing images, sensuality and language).