Sometimes when you get something right the first time, it is best just to leave it be, and never try to improve on it. The original James Bond, Casino Royale, film didn’t star any of the classic Bond actors, but it was written by Ian Flemming and had Ursula Andress in it along with Orson Wells. Let’s face it; there was no future incarnation of the film that was going to improve on that. Never let it be said that Hollywood knows when to quit though; they re-made it in 2006. Anyone who really liked the original will feel like they are enduring a two hour hemorrhoid attack while watching this new chapter in the seemingly endless bond franchise. It was written by a couple of guys that the producers probably found working the night shift at Taco Bell, and starred…well…who cares, it didn’t have Ursula Andress or Orson Wells, (or anyone close to that caliber). So does it really matter who starred in it?
From a poker aspect it fell down as well. Bond was mercifully poisoned half-way into the poker game, (probably of his own doing in a futile attempt to escape the movie), but it also featured a scene where four players went all-in after the river card hit the board. The only time this happens is in old, cheesy films about organized crime, and everybody at the table has four Aces.
On the plus side, there is enough action to keep those who were weaned on “Die Hard” interested, and Daniel Craig is a less suave but much more believable secret agent then Roger Moore ever was; so there is some good here. In short, if you like bright colors, big explosions, and think it is a crime against humanity that Arnold Schwarzenegger was never given the Oscar for best actor, you will enjoy this film.
