Quantum of Solace MPAA Rating: PG-13 Entertainment: +2 Content: -3

Daniel Craig, Judi Dench, Olga Kurylenka, Mathieu Amalric, Giancarlo Giannini. James Bond action/adventure. Written by Neal Purvis, Robert Wade, Paul Haggis. Directed by Marc Forster.

FILM SYNOPSIS: Revenge takes center stage in this, the 22nd filmed adventure of the worlds best dressed super spy. Bond seeks the killer of a one-time love while going up against another maniacal world dominator.

PREVIEW REVIEW: No longer is there an emphasis on gadgets, though James still has his sleek Astin Martin. Gone is the James Bond music theme, except for the end credits, and then only for a moment. This Bond is far more serious, a brooding killer loyal to M and country. Alas, it is a disappointing sequel to Daniel Craigs introduction in Casino Royale. Though action enthusiasts will enjoy the countless action sequences, the staging and direction of these scenes are muddled by the extreme close-ups and quick cutting. This is frustrating to viewers as we are unable to tell whats going on. Come to think of it, the same could be said for the story muddled and confused.

Daniel Craig fits the role to a T. Hes buff and manly in appearance and able to portray brutal and witty like no one since Mr. Connery. In his first sequel, however, Mr. Craig uses one expression throughout to cover his range of emotion from A to Z (thank you, Dorothy Parker). Though that tough, closed-off grimace suits his characters nature, after awhile it becomes a bit boring for the viewer. Of course, the ladies may disagree.

Its too dark, too brutal, and too excessive. Of course, this generation of filmgoers may appreciate its style over substance. I dont mean that as a putdown. Its just that todays sensibilities concerning film appreciation seem geared more to quick editing and an insatiable appetite for death-defying situations. Lulls in the action once reserved for story development and character study are harder to find in todays blockbusters. And while no one comes to a Bond movie for story development or three-dimensional characterizations, we do come to have fun. This one lacks much amusement.

Casino Royale was the best Bond escapade since Goldfinger, being well produced, well photographed and well paced, making it a perfect movie cocktail. Quantum of Solace has great locations and a beautiful, I mean beautiful Bond girl, but it, like the relationship between the two leads, lacks any chemistry. It shakes when it should have stirred.

Preview Reviewer: Phil Boatwright
Distributor: Sony Pictures