‘Spectre’ will leave you shaken, not stirred.
You know what they say: 24th time’s a charm. In the case of James Bond’s newest theatrical spy caper, Spectre, such a saying couldn’t be more honest. With high-adrenaline stunts that can have your blood pumping twice as fast, cinematography that could make any filmmaker drop their jaw and drool, and consistent homage to the authenticity of the original Bond movies, Spectre does not waste time providing you with exactly what you want to see.
Interestingly enough, this new adventure in the Bond series isn’t new at all. Actually, the concept of Spectre, an evil organization led by the criminal mastermind Ernst Stavro Blofeld (completely embodied in this installment by critically acclaimed actor, Christoph Waltz), is as classic as the franchise itself, becoming relevant in the very first Bond movie (1962’s Dr. No).
Nonetheless, throughout the 148-minute running-time, we find James Bond (still played immaculately by Daniel Craig) overcoming the events that took place on his home estate at Skyfall, as well as following M’s death wish to go after Marco Sciarra, an assassin for Spectre. Because he goes against the 007’s orders and follows M’s final order, the audience is thrust into this Bond-esque archetype in such an original and fresh way.
Spectre is truly an action rollercoaster, and not just because of the wide array of distances that James Bond can shoot a hand pistol. Rather, despite its seemingly long length and the almost-clichéd quotes that come out of Bond and his love interest, Dr. Swann (Léa Seydoux), what really sells the film overall is a combined effort of the camera and the actors.
Jenna Stuiso, a Montclair native and long-time Bond film-buff, said that, “even though the movie felt a little bit drawn out, the chemistry between Daniel Craig and Christoph Waltz really sold it for me in the end. Additionally, the camerawork makes you feel like you’re in on the action!” Hence, let it be known that this chapter in the series is as sleek and sophisticated as the relationships that it builds on, as well as the cinematography that gives you your own unique perspective on the thrill ride.
Overall, Spectre is a cinematic masterpiece, following the footsteps of its predecessor (Skyfall) with the same elegance and demeanor that made it so successful in the first place. Sure, it seems like it’s been done before, but that’s because it has been. That’s what makes it feel lengthy at certain points. Nevertheless, it finds its own distinctive touch through the likes of Craig and his cast of refined misfits. And if those camera angles prove to us anything, it’s that even 50 years later, the Bond series can still leave you shaken, not stirred.
Spectre is playing locally in and around Montclair! Some theaters include Allwood Cinema 6 in Clifton, AMC Essex Green 9 in West Orange, and even Bow Tie Bellevue Cinemas 4 in Montclair. For a list of even more movie theaters and show-times for each, visit fandango.com today.
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