If Craig decides to bow out, this latest Bond film is a near-perfect swansong
While it struggles to sustain the energy and imagination of its opening and closing sequences throughout, Spectre is a gratifying addition to the Bond catalogue.
Director Sam Mendes returns to the franchise, demonstrating the same flair for atmospheric, high-action set pieces that dominated Skyfall.
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Hide AdSpectre’s impressive opening sequence takes place during a crowded Mexican parade, packing in a spectacular explosion, intricately choreographed hand-to-hand combat and a jaw-dropping helicopter stunt.
The unveiling of the long-awaited Aston Martin DB10 is similarly momentous, combining an exhilarating car chase through Rome and the Vatican with a smattering of amusing gags.
It’s this kind of understated wit fused with poker-face action that defines Daniel Craig’s psychologically damaged 007 and there’s been a great deal of speculation about whether this will be the actor’s last outing in the role. Despite recent reports that Craig is contracted for one more movie, Spectre works as a neat send off for his Bond whose emotional scars seem largely healed.
In re-introducing Blofeld (a seething, unnerving Christoph Waltz who pays due homage to the original character), Spectre manages to re-visit characters from Craig’s earlier Bond outings providing a satisfying degree of closure.
It’s difficult to imagine a better adieu to Craig’s 007: Spectre providing a near perfect swansong. Craig might be best advised to bow out on a high.
4/5