Director: Sam Mendes

Starring: Daniel Craig, Judi Dench, Javier Bardem, Ralph Fiennes, Naomie Harris, and Ben Whishaw

007 is celebrating his 50th anniversary this year, and I can not think of a better way to mark the occasion than by releasing one of the best Bond films ever. This is Daniel Craig's third time out as the blonde Bond.

Casino Royale

was a reboot of the entire franchise moving away from the campy nature of the previous films and scoring high marks from critics and fans.

Quantum of Solace

was the not so spectacular follow up.

Oscar winning director

Sam Mendes (American Beauty)

brings his amazing talent to this franchise. The result is the most intimate look at the character of James Bond since

On Her Majesty's Secret Service

. Mendes shines light on Bond's past, humanizing him in a way audiences have never seen. Mendes has also assembled the strongest and most talented cast of any Bond film.

A highlight of Skyfall is the return of a Bond favorite who was noticeably absent from the previous two films.

Ben Whishaw (Cloud Atlas)

brings nerdy chic and a smashing head of hair to MI6 as the new quartermaster, providing 007 with quips and gadgets. Oscar winner

Judi Dench (Shakespeare in Love)

reprises her role as the head of MI6. Dench has played M since 1995's

Goldeneye,

and Skyfall is by far her best story arc. Oscar winner

Javier Bardhem (No Country for Old Men)

is the wonderfully twisted villan, Silva, who has a personal score to settle with M.

Naomi Harris (Pirates of the Caribbean)

is stunningly beautiful, and this Bond girl is in the middle of the action. There is a wonderful twist regarding Harris' character that I will not spoil but all Bond fans will love it. Oscar nominee

Ralph Fiennes (The English Patient and Harry Potter)

plays a small role with a set up that should see him featured prominently in any future Bond movies. Bond films are most often known for exotic locations, action, and beautiful women. It is a testament to this cast that Skyfall will be remembered as a character driven story and not the typical Bond fare

I could not write about this film without mentioning

Adele's

fabulous and Oscar deserving song Skyfall. The best Bond theme since

Diamonds are Forever

sets the tone for the entire film. Daniel Craig even said that it made him cry the first time he heard it. The film will not make you cry and by the time the credits role you will be eagerly waiting for Britain's top spy to return.

fashionado

film

score 8 out of 10

fashionado

film

Jamie Clemons