Casino Royale ** INLINE SPOILERS **

[Dominic]

Fantastic movie. I'm not sure if it's really as good as I think it is, or just that I went in with lowered expectations as I do with any movie that's just supposed to be "entertainment."

Either way, this is the darkest, most real Bond ever. Daniel Craig embues the character with such a steely-eyed masculinity, mixed with an ambiguous and well-hidden remorse for his actions - and why he's able to do the things he does - that makes his Bond the most well-rounded and human Bond yet.

The supporting cast is equally compelling, especially Eva Greene as a woman who is James Bonds' equal, and not merely a plaything between the covers.

And Judi Densch does more with less screen time than any actor alive. She's amazing.

The poker scenes, while ludicrous, were still fun to watch.

But what was so enjoyable about this film was how surprising it was, both in plot turns and in character building. I love how the writer's threw in classic Bond references like his martini, his car and others but with a modern, realistic twist.

And my god, how brutal and dark was this film at times? Bond goes through a torture scene that will have every man crossing his legs and wincing. Horrible.

Even though I saw the ending double-cross coming, it was still refreshingly powerful to see the origins of James Bond's emotionless resolve after being both betrayed and losing someone he loves.

And there's something so perfect about the scene - I won't ruin it for you - where Craig gets to utter those famous three words for the first time: "Bond. James Bond."

Terrific movie. Not only one of the best films of the year, but THE best Bond film ever. And yes, I'm serious.

(cross-posted from OOT 'cause I'm special)