As an origin story, this still has all the hallmarks of a Bond film, but this is one of those rare Bond films that successfully attempts to delve a little bit deeper into the character. It is a bold step taking the audience back to the beginning of Bond as a 00 agent, but credit to the writers and director as it allows them to focus on how Bond developed into the character seen in all the other films. Craig is perfect for the role of a Bond at the start of his career. In his work, Bond is much more a force of nature, raw and brutal, and there are doubts over his ability to remain detached. Its his emotional state that the film explores which makes this a much more interesting take on the character. Consequently, there is a greater stake in his relationship with Eva Green's character, who manages to make a far more memorable Bond girl than many of the recent ones from the Brosnan era. A great start to a new cycle of Bond films.

My pops likes to torture moms occasionally and sit thru every 007 movie in what he calls Bondfest bahahaha

This is Bond at his toughest. Daniel Craig's 007 is a one-man wrecking crew. He's practically a superhero, smashing through walls, fighting multiple baddies at once, and keeping up with vehicles on foot. None of the earlier Bond films come close to portraying a Bond this unpolished and brutal. The story is entertaining and easy to follow. The villain Le Chiffre is not threatening until a torture scene wipes out any sympathy he may have generated from his predicament with the even bigger fish he is working for. There are a number of memorable action scenes, primarily the opening chase scene where 007 pursues a man with a bomb on foot. It's jaw-dropping and the stunts are amazing. I'm not much of a card player but I have to say even the card playing scenes were exciting. A minor quibble I have is that the closing fight in Venice doesn't stand up as well when compared to the other great action pieces throughout the film. Arguments could easily be made that this is the best Bond film ever. It may just be my personal favorite.

It's crazy how much better this is than most of the other movies in this franchise. Daniel Craig is my James Bond and he is perfect. Mads Mikkelsen has that villain face and charisma. The action is top notch. The story is gripping even for a longer movie. They even made poker exciting.

From the breathtaking stunts in the opening chase to the suspenseful high-stakes poker game, ‘Casino Royale’ gets everything right, introducing Craig as a tougher, grittier and more realistic Bond. James Bond. 10/10