As Adele sings, "Skyfall, make you Warble, Garble, Garble," over the opening credits of the latest Bond Epic(tm) there is a tingling in your spine that only a few films every decade can create. As a franchise Bond is brilliant, but this is a series that is far better as a whole than the sum of its parts. There are memorable moments in many of the films, but most individually are flawed. This is as true of the Daniel Craig era of films as any other - `Quantum of Solace' was confusing. Perhaps `Casino Royale' is one of the few great Bonds when watched on its own, can `Skyfall' recapture this glory?

The short answer is no, the slightly longer not quite, and the longest answer continues in this paragraph. In terms of tone and acting `Skyfall' is Bond at its peak - there is a modern darkness to it and the likes of Craig, Javier Barden and director Sam Mendes brings real class to the film. The story is a decent one as Bond goes up against a new megalomaniac bad guy. If this smacks of old school Bond, then you would be correct. `Skyfall' is an attempt to blend the new post-Bourne Bond with the Bronsan years and behind. In my opinion this is only a partial success.

As a piece of fan service the small nods and winks to the old Bond are great; Q is back etc. However, other tips are a little heavy handed; an attempt to blend an OTT enemy with an intimate story does not work for me. Why would someone with almost limitless power put themselves in the path of danger? I like the new Bond; I like its realism and dark edges. Polishing them off to give Craig a more Moore appeal would be a shame. `Skyfall' is full of spine-tingling moments, especially for fans, but also worrisome trends. In my mind `Casino Royale' remains the defining moment for Craig's Bond.

3.5 stars

*Film only Review*