The appetite of movie audiences for films in the James Bond franchise is insatiable. If follows therefore that to satisfy that hunger the producers have delayed releasing the film until it is relatively safe for audiences to attend. This the audience members can do with ease, providing they have the necessary vaccine proof, in that theatre managers have opted to show the film on as many screens as possible. This means that, apart from a few random films (usually intended for those who like horror or movies aimed at children), filmgoers have little choice about what to watch.
Of course, Bond fans will doubtless greet No Time to Die with wild enthusiasm. For my part, I found the film decidedly redundant. In large part this is because I simply cannot remember much about any of the previous 24 Bond films, although I believe I saw and reviewed all of them, and this film is largely formulaic.
The current episode will, however, delight the fans because it offers essentially all the elements that characterize the genre. The plot once again has an evil scientist threatening the entire planet with destruction, though in this he is abetted by other villains.
The story line is far too complicated to summarize (and, for me, at least, difficult even to understand at times), but this is hardly important. What the film also delivers is masses of eye-jolting action.
Thus, Bond, lured out of retirement at M’s reluctant behest, once again predictably becomes involved in a series of physical combats, gunfights, car chases, and explosions. Since this is exactly what the fans come to see, and since these are skillfully filmed and edited, one supposes that the film is a success.
On the other hand, some may find all this decidedly repetitive and the film’s 143-minute running time somewhat excessive. As is to be expected, once again Bond is portrayed using his charm to attract women. Although the sexual encounters are handled tactfully, the fact that the woman in question appears to be half his age may for some bring a measure of discomfort, not to mention that one use of Jesus’ name is downright objectionable.
Of course, fans will doubtless be anxious to see Daniel Craig in his final performance as Bond. To the extent that I can remember any of the previous incarnations of the role, I think Craig best suits the part, but as the camera closes in on his bruised and battered face and his obvious aging, it is apparent that he is wise in bidding farewell to the role.
In addition to the leading actor, the cast generally acquits itself well. Lea Seydoux, as the love interest, has considerably more to do than look attractive – and does it convincingly. Lashaa Lynch as Nomi, here acting as Bond’s short-term replacement, has clearly been included to show that women (not to mention women of colour) can play action roles. Ralph Fiennes is bland as M (where is Judi Dench when we need her?) But Ben Whishaw, as the brilliant, nerdy Q, brings a welcome touch of humour – stealing the film in my opinion.
In other words, the film is generally loyal to the brand, fully presents all that the fans expect, and will doubtless enjoy enormous box office success.
However, despite the efforts of the cast and director Cary Joji Fukunaga, I realize that for me No Time to Die is already becoming a fast-fading memory, virtually indistinguishable from all the Bond films that have preceded it.
On the other hand, Bond fans will doubtless relish every minute – and probably go back for seconds. And the only thing left in doubt is who is going to assume the lead role next.
