Bond is now

Like a bevy of people around here, I had been looking forward to watch the new James Bond movie, and when yesterday I unexpectedly got invited to watch the movie that same night I immediately accepted. The trailer of Casino Royale had led me to believe that this was a really cool movie, definitely worth watching at the cinema as soon as possible. My verdict? Oh yes! It was a great movie - the epitome of cool. In my opinion Daniel Craig has fit into the role as easily as he fit into his tux. He gives the character a raw edge, very gritty, masculine, violent and sadistic yet tender - almost impossible you'd think but somehow he manages perfectly. I don't know why they ever made such a fuss about having a blonde Bond.

For once there is no overload of CGI - the action looks mostly plausible (a few weeks ago I watched Goldeneye on telly and I just laughed out loud at how absurdly ridiculous and impossible the action was: a complete zinnata as we call it in Maltese). It's true one has to adopt a certain suspension of disbelief but a James Bond movie isn't a sci-fi movie or set in a complete fantasy world. The first action set-piece set in Madagascar involved some incredible stunts (and apparently no CGI) making it even more powerful and the collapse of the Venetian building toward the end (no spoilers there - it's in the trailer) also looked quite real although it was perhaps over-drawn. And so I believe that Casino Royale delivers what a Bond movie should be - daredevil but realistic stunts, injuries when and where there should be, stunning locations and (more) stunning people, and of course I don't mind a dose of avant-garde technology and beautiful cars, plus the essential: a credible script.

To anyone who's still to watch it, enjoy! As for me I'm greatly anticipating 2008 to watch the next one.

Last Tuesday I watched a movie of a different genre altogether - one which I found thought provoking, well-made and touching. I watched the Palestinian film Paradise Now. It also somehow reinforced (or reminded me of) my current love for all things Middle-Eastern in terms of culture. It was being shown as part of an international film festival showing at one of the local cinemas. Unfortunately, it was the only film I managed to see but I'm glad I "dragged" some people to see this particluar film with me.

Enjoyed isn't excatly a word one can use when discussing a film which deals with such a matter that is frequently in the news. This story of two friends who are recruited as suicide bombers was treated in an unbiased manner with occasional humour thrown in, although one never forgets the underlying drama and sadness. The film does not justify or condemn one particular side, but it raises questions for which there are no clear answers - one cannot just take one side in this conflict. If we were in such a situation would we be pushed to such limits too? Horror and suffering lies on either side. Why can't there be an understanding that violence will only breed more violence?

To sum it up from just an artistic point of view: a beautiful film with excellent acting. Highly recommended.