#2: Casino Royale

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Plot

Like all other Bond classics, Casino Royale highlights a dark, dangerous mission of Secret Agent James Bond (Daniel Craig) Even though this Bond was made much later than the first movie, the story was actually the first Bond book written by Ian Fleming. However, in this particular film, Bond ventures out on his first mission as a 007 operative with MI6. Armed with this new title, Bond hunts an A-list arms dealer - Le Chiffre (Mads Mikkelsen).

With the help of both the head of MI6, M (Judi Dench), and other techies, Bond follows Le Chiffre's associates to the Bahamas and then Miami. Once there, Bond casually saves an entire airplane from a fatal explosion with his usual pizazz and flare. Then, Bond meets accountant Vesper Lynd (Eva Green). While following Le Chiffre's actions, Bond and the rest of MI6 become aware that he has set up a poker game at Casino Royale in Montenegro with a $10 million buy-in. This is where Vesper Lynd (Eva Green) arrives. Vesper, an accountant for the British government, is supposed to help Bond with the money aspects of the game. But, things get a little complicated.

Of course, there's always a Bond girl. And Vesper is the Bond girl. But, this relationship is different for Bond. He actually falls in love with Vesper...and she with him. Through kidnappings, death threats, and intense decisions, Bond and Vesper survive their tests as a couple and make it out alive. But, life as James Bond isn't always rainbows and butterflies. The ending is so good (when I mean good, I mean good! How could this movie have been my #2 ranking, if not?) that I can't even begin to describe it, you'll just have to watch it yourself.

Favorite Character 

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M - She's so mysterious you don't even know her full name, you just get one initial! As the head of MI6, M stands on the responsibility of secret agent's lives and their missions to destroy evil geniuses (literally) and their diabolical plans, all while trying to keep the people of Great Britain safe in their homes. One might expect someone with this kind of responsibility to be a little nuts. And she is, and I kind of love her for it. She's not afraid to yell, in fact, she does it quite often, and she speaks her mind, for people would lose their lives if she didn't. M's particular interest in James Bond is very prominent and it is obvious that the two have a special bond...pun intended! M almost acts as the mother he never had while still trying to be his scary boss.

Favorite Scene

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Hands down the poker game. You can literally see and feel the tension rising. Men in black tie tuxedos drinking strong cocktails mixed with sweat as millions of dollars are in the hands of one of the most dangerous arms dealers in the world. Spectators watch anxiously on the sideline as each player deals his cards and bet even more of their chips. Of course, Bond and
Le Chiffre are naturally the best players. But, skill doesn't get Le Chiffre everywhere when playing poker with a man like James Bond.

Favorite Quotes 

"I'm sorry. That last hand...nearly killed me." (James Bond)
"Christ, I miss the Cold War!" (M)
"There's not enough room in this elevator for me and your ego." (Vesper Lynd)
"The name is Bond, James Bond." (James Bond)

Link to Preview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fl5WHj0bZ2Q

Do you think Daniel Craig is a good Bond? What other Bond actors stand out to you?