Casino Royale

As an origin story, this still has all the hallmarks of a Bond film, but this is one of those rare Bond films that successfully attempts to delve a little bit deeper into the character. It is a bold step taking the audience back to the beginning of Bond as a 00 agent, but credit to the writers and director as it allows them to focus on how Bond developed into the character seen in all the other films. Craig is perfect for the role of a Bond at the start of his career. In his work, Bond is much more a force of nature, raw and brutal, and there are doubts over his ability to remain detached. Its his emotional state that the film explores which makes this a much more interesting take on the character. Consequently, there is a greater stake in his relationship with Eva Green's character, who manages to make a far more memorable Bond girl than many of the recent ones from the Brosnan era. A great start to a new cycle of Bond films.

It's crazy how much better this is than most of the other movies in this franchise. Daniel Craig is my James Bond and he is perfect. Mads Mikkelsen has that villain face and charisma. The action is top notch. The story is gripping even for a longer movie. They even made poker exciting.