Forget megalomaniac villains, femme fatales and relentless assassins, the biggest threat to Daniel Craig’s fifth and final outing as Bond was COVID-19.
The blockbuster’s release date was delayed several times due to the pandemic, with rumours suggesting it might be dropped onto a streaming service.
But 007’s gatekeepers stuck to their guns on the tuxedo-clad hero’s latest adventure playing on the big screen and now we finally get to see Craig’s swan song.
Before hopefully heading off into the sunset, Bond is pulled into action one more time to take on mysterious villain Safin (Rami Malek) and his dangerous new technology.
Whatever the overall assessment of No Time to Die , one thing is for sure; Craig is once again outstanding.
While his Bond journey may not have always gifted him top tier flicks, Craig continues to deserve consideration as the finest 007 and here he’s arguably at his best as a vulnerable, world-weary Bond with trust issues who is still determined to save the day.
The action is fantastic too. Cary Joji Fukunaga ( True Detective ) replaced Danny Boyle in the director’s chair and with icy backdrops, a pulsating bridge attack and some familiar gadgets, he caters to fans of the franchise.
Faring less well is the script, which included a late polish from Fleabag’s Phoebe Waller-Bridge.
The film takes far too long to get going and while it was a neat idea to introduce a female spy for Bond to have a playful rivalry with, Lashana Lynch’s Nomi is a surprisingly underwritten presence.
Malek must also be one of the weaker Bond baddies, which is another shock given his sterling work in Bohemian Rhapsody and Mr. Robot . He just doesn’t carry the threat required, especially considering he is Craig’s final foe.
Ralph Fiennes ( M ), Ben Whishaw ( Q ), Naomie Harris ( Moneypenny ) and Jeffrey Wright ( Felix ) are all welcome returnees and Ana de Armas ( Paloma ) injects glamour and poise, although Léa Seydoux’s Madeleine quickly starts to grate.
So, Craig never did quite manage to top his Bond bow in Casino Royale , but despite its flaws, the Chester-born star is the best thing about No Time to Die - and the film grants him a suitably touching denouement.
Whoever is next in line for Bond has some big shoes - and cuff links - to fill.
● What are your thoughts on No Time to Die, and Craig’s time as Bond? Pop me an email at ian.bunting@reachplc.com with your views.
● No Time to Die is screening in cinemas now.
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