MOVIE REVIEW: Bond does it again — Grade A-
Twenty movies, 40 years and just as many cars and girls. “Die Another Day” marks an anniversary for the longest-running spy franchise in movie history. The surprising thing is that even at his age, Bond is a cut above the rest.
In a movie market flooded with spy movies and action rip-offs, Bond still holds the title. The latest installment has everything Bond has come to stand for. Innovative new stunts start the film, and, like all other installments, Bond must break into some foreign power early on. This one rides the wave and crests as one of the best to date. Bond can still fight, and he is tough as ever.
More than the beginning sequence shows promise. Pierce Brosnan demonstrates why he was awarded the role in the first place. His performance still ranks as the most polished Bond in the series for me. True, the others have their moments in the role, but none possess the charm, intellect and downright suave demeanor he does. Brosnan offers humanity in a role that often lacks it. He is the perfect Bond to take the series into an era of bigger, better and faster.
In a changing industry filled with massive explosions, this film dabbles just enough to keep the modern audience happy without sacrificing the thrills that have made Bond famous. One of the more charming aspects of “Die” is the honor it pays to past films. For those who know the series well, many will notice gadgets and weapons from each of the other films. Also, it was refreshing to return to Bondesque names again — Mr. Kill and Miranda Frost, among others.
This is what “The World is Not Enough” wanted to be — great villains, better good guys. Which brings us to Halle Berry (Jinx) as a Bond girl with attitude, strength and grace. Berry deserves every ounce of praise she will receive for this one. Although she is often shown in the stereotypic Bond moments, she is also a new voice for the “girls.” This was a refreshing film with more style than your average spy flick. For die-hard Bond fans, this will be a pleasing addition to the series. It is a worthy, action-packed, heart-pounding ride. This film is just what the franchise needed to keep it alive.
Not all the credit is due to Brosnan and Berry however. Judi Dench (M), John Cleese (Q) and Samantha Bond (Moneypenny) are fantastic in their roles. It is always a pleasure to see them back. They’re family, in a way. What would a Bond film be without them? Director Lee Tamahori also deserves a quick nod. This is his first Bond film, and he handles it with ease. In fact, he gives the actors freedom to develop their characters and takes Bond from the perfect pretty boy to a human.
Bond may have turned 40 this year, but there is still a lot of mileage left on that old Aston Martin.
Jared Sterzer is a senior majoring in business information systems. Comments can be sent to jwsterz@cc.usu.edu