October’s Very Own 007

Having suffered major delays upon it’s releasing process during the Covid-19 pandemic, the 25th film of the James Bond series trudged towards its eventual 2021 box office debut.

With this being the fifth and final movie to star Daniel Craig as the titular character, the production, writing and overall filmmaking had to be of an elite level to fully depart Craig from the franchise. That consideration had the film start development all the way back in 2016. Yet to unforeseen circumstances, both director Danny Boyle and co-writer John Hodges stepped away due to creative differences.

Cary Joji Fukunaga stepped in to direct the film back in Sept 2018. Which actually made him the first American filmmaker to direct an official bond film within the entire Bond catalogue.

While bringing along an all-star cast with the likes of Jeffrey Wright, Rami Malek, Lashana Lynch, Ana de Armas, Christopher Waltz and many more. No Time To Die is a more serious and long flick upon the rest of the series. But a fitting emotional, eye-popping send-off for Daniel Craig‘s chapter.

The Ian Fleming Legacy

Since Daniel Craig‘s first outing as James Bond in Casino Royale (2006), the fierce and emotional journey of his character now comes full circle within the final outing. Throughout the five films, we see his iteration of the popular spy series deal with incredible losses, lavish sceneries and life or death situations constantly. 

As a result, when we finally see James in No Time To Die for the first time our strong-willed hero seems vulnerable. After the events of Spectre (2015) and the immense confrontation with Madeline played by Léa Seydoux, we see our spy retire to Jamaica where his peace is ultimately short-lived.

The film helps create a more fulfilling, dramatic tone by having various characters return to action from previous movies including Ralph Fiennes as “M”, Ben Whishaw as “Q”, and introduce Lashana Lynch playing “Nomi” and Ana de Armas as “Paloma”. 

By having our team of espionage specialists deal with assassins, biological weapons and a multitude of twists around every corner, No Time To Die excels with stunning set pieces and luxurious filmmaking. Debuting as the movie’s antagonist is Rami Malek playing “Lyutsifer Safin”, who brings a powerful, creepily eerie take to his performance as the film’s villain keeping his intentions in the film extremely personal when dealing with the cast of MI6 members. 

Following the foundation laid out from the previous Bond films, No Time To Die truly is the culmination of the Craig era. Bond movies have grown to adopt a certain criteria for the series and always speculate the villains be fully destroyed and the hero with his model girlfriend appear unscathed.

The Aftermath Of James Bond

In this depiction, however, enemies are more cunning and the stakes are higher than ever. Where other runs of James Bond by actors such as Sean Connery, Roger Moore and Pierce Brosnan delivered high stunts and amazing performances during their tenures. Daniel Craig‘s time at the helm has proved him to be a superior version of the titular spy. 

With a runtime of 163 minutes, No Time To Die has expert pacing consistently throughout. Ditching the fancier gadgets and misogynistic attitude for a more grounded approach towards the final title starring Craig. Showcasing more of an emotional yet striking edition of the character.

Looming on the horizon is the future of the Bond series. Whether situations that occur in No Time To Die will play a role in the decision-making is for another time.

One thing we at 10 at 10 can confirm is Daniel Craig’s portrayal as James Bond has solidified itself as one of the greatest spy series to ever exist. 

Check out No Time To Die in movie theaters across the globe, out now.

Enjoyed this review? Check out September’s movie of the month here.