Quantum of Solace

Scott Hardie: “It was ok.”

This follow-up to Casino Royale has all of its gravitas and craftsmanship, but none of its soul. A story about an assassin losing the ability to feel is interesting, but the continued adventures of Agent Killbot lack something. Bond seems to be the same man at the end of this movie as he started, despite what happens, and the journey doesn't seem to have been worth it. The production was so rushed that the dialogue (what little there is) was often written the day of filming, which does not benefit the outcome.

Still, even if it didn't have the same sense of purpose that made such a difference in its predecessor, it's an above-average action flick. The influence of the Jason Bourne movies is now crystal clear, especially with a trio of scenes that seem deliberately lifted from that other series, and this ramped-up tempo gives the action scenes an adrenaline shot in the arm. The movie is one breakneck chase scene after another in a variety of vehicles and locations, each more spectacular than the last. I just wish all of the money and skill that went into this picture could have been put to better use than the sum of its parts.

− December 10, 2008 • more by Scott • log in or create an account to reply