Hot Take: Spectre has all of the elements of other Bond films but that’s more due to it’s absurd length than anything. At times, it feels like it’s working a checklist. Even with it’s slightly formulaic feel, it’s an entertaining ride when it gets on track.

Spectre, unofficially “Bond 24”, is full of peaks and valleys. The opening “Mexico City” scene sets the bar incredibly high but the pacing and smoothness of the opening action scene is never reached again. As rumors swirl it may be his last turn as 007, Daniel Craig delivers a solid performance but there’s too much formula to differentiate Spectre from Bond 1-23.

If you see every Bond film, you won’t be overwhelmed but probably won’t be disappointed. If you’re a more discerning Bond fan, skipping this one won’t be a complete regret.

“Spoiler Free” Pros

  • Christoph Waltz
    Waltz as Bond villain Franz Oberhauser is the biggest highlight of the film. He chews up and spits out every bit of script in a way that makes you more interested in the villain than the hero. In a series full of memorable villains, Waltz adds himself to the unforgettable list.
  • Every Scene Is Beautifully Shot and Class Personified
    Even at it’s dullest, Spectre is spectacular to look at. The globetrotting storyline captures the beauty of every location and is easy on the eyes. There are far worse voyeuristic adventures than tagging along with Bond as he travels the world for 2 and 1/2 hours.
  • The Car and The Bond Girls Deliver
    The scenes featuring the Aston Martin DB10 in Spectre are a great commercial for a car you and I will never afford. A number of intriguing women cross paths with Bond in the latest installment with Lea Seydoux (as Madeleine Swann) as the most beautiful and intriguing. Bond continues to provide he has incredible taste in cars and women.

“Spoiler Free” Cons

  • Unnecessary Length
    Spectre suffers from a failure to keep the film movie at the frenetic pace of it’s opening. There’s an expectation set by the opening scene but never gets met the rest of the way.
  • It’s Loud
    While the visuals are stunning, crisp and clear, the sound is overwhelming and more loud and less clear.
  • Dave Bautista
    Spectre‘s henchman doesn’t live up to it’s villain. Bautista (as Mr. Hinx) silently broods, smirks and wrestles his way through his role. It’s the inverse of Waltz’s performance.