Skyfall: Slightly Shaken but Never Stirred

Britain's most famous and dapper spy James Bond returns to theaters nationwide today to celebrate 50 years in the film industry.  Skyfall is, simply put, a badass action thriller and a much needed comeback for die-hard fans who were beyond disappointed with the lackluster Quantum of Solace. Daniel Craig's performance in Skyfall not only redeems his place as the 6th 007, but also further solidifies himself as the true embodiment of what's expected from an espionage veteran: sleek gadgets, witty dialogue, exotic women, pristine tailored suits and of course, a vintage Aston Martin that'll leave you wishing for a joy ride.

The movie begins in Istanbul where Bond is in hot pursuit of a stolen, coveted disk that contains all of the identities of M16 undercover agents around the world. When the mission is thwarted and Bond is believed to be dead, a cyber-terrorist targets M (Judi Dench), hacking into her computer and bombing M16 headquarters. Bond reemerges, with physical and psychological disadvantages, but is intent on aiding M discover the mastermind behind the attacks.

Bond must undergo an array of tests in order to be reinstated and allowed back on the field. M allows him to return although she makes it painfully clear that he's made it by the skin of his teeth. It is here that the audience sees that perhaps M has a developed motherly attachment to Bond and regardless of his less impressive test results, is willing to put her faith in him.

Ultimately, Bond is led to the villain, Raoul Silva (Javier Bardem), a cunning former M16 agent who has secluded himself on a deserted island where he wreaks havoc anywhere in the world with the touch of button. He questions Bond's loyalty to M and reveals the reasoning behind the attacks: M betrayed him and in turn, a long awaited act of calculated revenge will be served, cold of course.

M, with Bond's ever present protection, eludes all of Silva's murderous attempts on her life. Finally realizing that the deadly game of cat and mouse will continue until M is dead, Bond takes her to his childhood home in Scotland for a final showdown filled with dynamite, sawed off shotguns, and ferocious booby traps.

To sum it up, I was nothing short of impressed. The storyline of a mentally deranged villain seeking vengeance based upon a warped sense of betrayal is a tad redundant. But when you are made to question the relevance of Bond's existence and whether or not he's necessary in a world where advanced technology nearly replaces humans, it is absolutely imperative to discover the answer. And Bardem's portrayal of Silva easily makes Skyfall even more captivating and thrilling. So enjoy the 2 hour and 23 minute heart pounding ride that only James Bond can deliver. Cheers!