Daniel Craig and Ana de Armas star as James Bond and Paloma respectively in Cary Joji Fukunaga’s
No Time to Die
(2021). Photo courtesy of MGM.
A poignant finale for Daniel Craig’s tenure as the iconic James Bond, Director Cary Joji Fukunaga’s
No Time to Die
(2021) provides a more somber interpretation of the main character as he races to save the world once again. Directly following the events of the previous installment,
Spectre
(2015), the movie shows a retired James Bond as he attempts to begin a new life with his love interest Madeleine Swann (Léa Seydoux) and leave his old life behind. However, tragedy strikes and Bond is dragged back into the fray, encountering new, as well as familiar, faces along the way.
The film sees the return of the new M (Ralph Fiennes), Q (Ben Whishaw) and Miss Moneypenny (Naomie Harris) in their usual supporting roles as they help the retired MI6 agent against the villainous Safin (Rami Malek). Bond also meets a host of new characters, including the new 007 (Lashana Lynch) and charming CIA agent Paloma (Ana De Armas), who brings refreshing new energy.
The plot is straightforward and a little cliché at times, though there are enough twists and turns that inject originality into the franchise and keep things entertaining for the audience. The film begins with Bond having once again dropped off the radar in retirement, losing all contact with his former agency. However, trouble comes,and he is forced to return when an evil scheme is unveiled that threatens the entire world. A biological weapon, DNA-targeting nanobots that can infect and kill millions, has fallen into the wrong hands, and it is up to Bond, the CIA and MI6 to stop them before it is released. Various firefights and car chases ensue, showcasing stunning visuals accompanied by a Hans Zimmer soundtrack.
The movie’s strong suits are its characters and their relationships with each other, having been established in previous films and culminating in an emotional climax. Bond’s relationship with Swann takes center stage and propels much of the story forward, becoming a core aspect of the movie.
It is important to note that the film contains several allusions to previous Bond movies, creating a continuity that ties Craig’s films together and brings his arc to a conclusive end. While not necessary to have watched all the other movies, it certainly makes the callbacks and plot more enjoyable.
No Time to Die
contains all the usual Bond tropes — the sex appeal, the action-packed sequences, the evil villain looking to destroy the world and the all-around coolness of the lead actor. However, there is an ever-present feeling of somberness that we have not quite seen in previous films, as we are presented with a more introspective and serious Bond. Craig’s departure as the agent unexpectedly tugs at the heartstrings, as he delivers a final portrayal of the secret agent that is more emotional than Craig’s previous versions of the character.
The film’s biggest struggles are with its villains and its long run-time of 163 minutes. Though Malek’s Safin was played well by the actor, he ultimately feels dull and unoriginal. The audience does not get much out of him, and his story feels like one we have heard time and time again. Pair this with a run-time that feels a little too long at times, and some viewers can be put-off. However, the movie provides enough theatrical fireworks and charm, mixed in with a bittersweet farewell for Craig’s Bond that it is worth overlooking its flaws.
There were several standout performances, most notably from De Armas, Seydoux and Craig himself. De Armas gives a great new character with Paloma, a witty and exciting CIA agent who quickly becomes a highlight of the movie despite her short screen time. Seydoux’s Madeleine Swann brings out Bond’s emotional side and gives audiences a different perspective on the usually stoic agent. Craig delivers a great performance, captivating audiences and making a memorable impression. This James Bond is different than his predecessors, as he is grittier and more open, though he retains the charm and suaveness the agent is known for, capturing that sweet spot that sets him apart.
Overall, it might not be the greatest Bond film, but it is certainly worth a watch, concluding Daniel Craig’s run as what one could argue is the best James Bond. The movie has many of the aspects we have come to expect from the franchise, but it is not afraid to try something new and daring, much like its titular character. Craig delivers the best portrayal of the dashing rogue we have seen yet, giving a vulnerable yet powerful Bond that one will not soon forget.