‘Spectre,’ a new twist on an all-time classic
By: Cole Hammond
Since the “man of mystery” we all know so well first made his appearance on the big screen on May 8, 1963, with the classic “Dr. No,” James Bond has been setting the standard by which all other spy movies are measured.
Twenty-four films, six actors and 52 years later, Ian Fleming’s brainchild is still captivating audiences. “Spectre,” released Nov. 6, is an excellent addition to the franchise, but falls just short of the brilliance shown by 2012’s “Skyfall.”
“Spectre’s” storyline relies heavily on the past three Bond films and is full of allusions to other movies in the franchise. While this is one of the film’s greatest strengths, it also might be one of its greatest weaknesses.
James Bond fans who have seen the last three movies should be able to understand the story with a minimal amount of confusion but someone who has only seen one of the other Bond movies may find themselves a little lost.
The action sequences are really what carries “Spectre.” The film opens with a scene in Mexico City on the Day of the Dead, which is both exciting and visually mystifying. From a car chase through the streets of Rome to a tense confrontation in the heart of London, all of the actions sequences in this movie keep the audience interested and awed.
Possibly the most original aspect of the movie is the new light it casts our protagonist. In “Spectre,” we start to see a more tired, wearier Bond than audiences are used to. After years of fighting and killing, Bond beings to feel the weight of the deaths on his conscience and the pain of loss in his heart. The womanizing, martini-drinking Bond we all know and love is still there, make no doubt about it, but he begins to question the path that was chosen for him.
“Spectre” also provides the audience with a unique look into Bond’s past that no previous movie has really given us. I personally really enjoyed this, because it made Bond seem more like a real human being with doubts and insecurities, rather than the single-minded killing machine that he is often portrayed as.
“Spectre” surprised me by successfully turning the 1960’s interpretation of the criminal organization SPECTRE, which has been so often spoofed in movies like “Austin Powers,” into something that felt fresh and modern. Instead of going over the top, the kept the organization literally in the shadows for most of the film, which successfully built up a sense of intrigue and suspense.
Overall I’d give the film a solid four stars out of five, making it a great movie, but falling just short of excellence. So if you like fast cars, beautiful women, great action sequences and a main character who could make a sneeze look classy, then “Spectre” is well worth the price of admission.
—Cole Hammond is a sophomore majoring in marketing and economics, He was disappointed to find out “BS” is not an actual degree.
@colehammondUSU