The James Bond movie franchise is arguably the most successful in film history, with longevity that exceeds any other series of movies in Hollywood. Casino Royale is the 21st film of the storied franchise and is considered a "reboot" of the spy series, derived from the novels of renowned author Ian Fleming. The film also debuts Daniel Craig as the 6th actor to play Bond. This film is not to be confused as a remake of the original 1967 Casino Royale, which was actually a spoof of spy films, starring David Niven and Peter Sellers.

However, this film could accurately be labeled a "throwback", as it seeks to faithfully create the atmosphere described in Ian Fleming's 1953 novel of the same title. Casino Royale takes us to the beginning of James Bond's career, just prior to him being granted "Double-O" status. We follow his first major assignment as he engages an international financier of terrorists and seeks to eventually out-duel him at the poker table, rather than the traditional Bond game of baccarat.

The plot has many of the familiar elements of the Bond series including the sinister villain, the beautiful companion(s), chase scenes, and a few gadgets, though the popular character of "Q" is nowhere to be found. However, this is definitely a much grittier Bond, reminiscent of the original Dr. No, starring Sean Connery. Unlike the proper and constantly comedic Roger Moore, the forgettable George Lazenby, the brief and soulless Timothy Dalton, and the suave Pierce Brosnan, Craig's Bond bleeds, gets frustrated, destroys his signature tuxedo, and genuinely seems to struggle with his role as a violent assassin.

As with many similar franchises in the current day, the filmmakers have attempted to delve into the psyche of their main character, rather than perpetuate the indestructible comic-book persona who saves the world without a scratch or a piece of lint on his suit. The plot is also a bit more digestible in terms of world scope, without the usual madman with a super-laser trying to take over the world. Overall, Bond fans have accepted this reboot and so do I.

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