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