User Score
7.9 out of 10

Generally favorable reviews- based on 704 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Negative: 82 out of 704

Review this movie

  1. Submit
  2. Check Spelling
  1. JeffM.
    Mar 4, 2007
    10
    Casino Royale is the best Bond film ever and Daniel Craig, as Bond, was awsome. I only wish we can see more of him as Bond in remakes.
  2. MaryD.
    Jan 26, 2010
    10
    I enjoyed the action in this movie to make him more of a human event instead of a computer role. Thanks Daniel for your energy throughout the movie.
  3. JamesN.
    Jan 1, 2007
    10
    More realistic than the previous Bond movies which have been too much like cartoons. Daniel Craig does a great job as Bond and the story and intro are great.
  4. CharlesT.
    Apr 10, 2007
    10
    The best James Bond movie ever made. It is a great fresh movie. It shows the series by doing something something i would not have ever thought of in my whole life and that is creating Daniel Craig into the best Bond ever and making it a great movie.
  5. RichardK.
    Apr 1, 2007
    10
    Waiting for this movie to come out on DVD is my mistake. I wish I saw this one on the large theatre screen. The most impresive Bond Movie in decades. Daniel Craig brings 007 back to someone we respect & love. This change in style was exactly what the Bond franchise needed to save itself. I can't wait to see the next one, this time at the Theatre .
  6. RyanS.
    Jan 9, 2008
    10
    Best Bond film since Goldfinger.
  7. VitusP.
    Dec 28, 2006
    10
    This is a James Bond that introduces the stark duality of humanity into the series. Throughout the series of movies we see some very good acting, but next to Craig's bond, everyone else just looks like a comic book character. Another exciting aspect about this bond movie is that it IS more dependant on the plot and the characters than the gadgets, 2 bit sex scenes, and myriad of explosives. Just to point out, I think the opening ("You Know My Name", appropriately enough) is the first Bond movie not to feature dancing females' nude silhousettes. This suggests that Bond films are becoming more than just toy commercials for middle aged men. Also, it's about time we saw another Bond film based on Ian Flemming's novels. Praise be that they got the first one right. Expand
  8. Oriel
    Dec 9, 2006
    10
    Captivating. Casino Royale hearkens back to the early days when Bond, played by Connery, was Ian Flemming's creation. Over the years, the Bond franchise had been reduced to fluff with irrelevant but money-making sequels. A huge thanks to the filmmakers who helped bring an old childhood friend back.
  9. DougM
    Jan 18, 2007
    10
    In looking over the reviews, one thing that keeps coming up is a list of by the numbers Bond cliches that are missing that allegedly make this a bad movie. In "The Living Daylights" commentary, the director mentions that what has kept Bond alive for so long is that he changes with the times. The Bond movies were dying. The Brosnan movies were close to the bottom of the pile in terms of total number of tickets sold amongst Bond movies (not how much money made as a movie ticket costs three times what it did in Connery's day but actual number sold). It was dying. The new Bond is exactly what was needed to reinvent Bond for 2006 and onward. Expand
  10. JamesB.
    Apr 2, 2007
    10
    This movie was absolutely perfect, I don't know why some guys gave it a "1" or a "3". The story is when Bond gets his 00 license and his license to kill. Since this is Fleming's first book on James Bond, there is no "Q" (he didn't debue until from Russia with love). Because there is no "Q" no gadgets. This knew Bond may seem reckless at first, but hey, it's when he is young and most energetic of his time. Expand
  11. CandyR.
    May 8, 2007
    10
    I must admit that I was one of those skeptical about the new Bond. I doubted I would even go and see it. However, I happened to be at a different movie when the previews came out and in seeing them I began to reconsider. Unfortunately I didn't get to see it in the theater (which is always the best way to watch a new movie), but rented it when it became available. Daniel Craig turned out to be the most breathtaking and enigmatic persona I've seen on the screen in a very long time! Imagine, Bond, a real person after all! For those who vastly enjoy the intellectual qualities of a film greater than the mindless and gratuitous sexual content with its childish repartees, this is the REAL McCOY!!! The dialogue is fresh, the action is riveting, and I've never seen anything so wonderful as Bond in a bathing suit! Expand
  12. JimP
    Feb 8, 2009
    10
    Best Bond ever, best Bond film ever. Period.
  13. TimJ.
    Nov 17, 2006
    10
    I never thought there could be a bond like Sean Connery. I was wrong. Peirce B. came close. But Daniel Craig has gone beyond. You get to watch how events change the man and the man becomes Bond. And Daniel Craig IS Bond. I hope he makes a dozen bond movies.
  14. KevinM.
    Nov 17, 2006
    10
    This movie was absolutely amazing. Without question, it was one of the best films of the 20th century, in my opinion. Between the elaborately drawn up plot, extremely humorous typical "Bond" humor, and of course, the absoutely phenomenal stunts & filmography, this movie tops the world's greatest, and also rivals GoldenEye for the greatest bond movie ever. Daniel Craig's acting is fantastic, and the frequent remarks and humorous quick comments keep viewers on the edge of their seat, if not standing up yelling. Expand
  15. EricN.
    Nov 18, 2006
    10
    Long time Bond fan here. This one does not disappoint. It's a good bit different from the usual, but to me- that's a good thing. Very little cheese in this one. All the actors are incredible, great writing, great action scenes, great adaption of the original book. The only two flaws I could find were: 1) A cheesy finger-licking scene. 2) It might have run a little long. This was ok for me as a Bond-geek, but my non-Bond-geek companions were getting a little worn out toward the end. Also, I haven't seen my local theater that packed in a long time. Expand
  16. BruceC.,CraneTexas
    Nov 18, 2006
    10
    This is the Best Bond film ever to be put on screen! Daniel Craig did Excellent on playing the role Bond. I can't wait to see him again. Daniel Craig brought a new personality to Bond. Which I love how he did it. The main 3 reasons I love this film. Is because there is no gadgets. no Q, or no Moneypenny. But most of all. I love the new Bond!!
  17. AnthonyS.
    Nov 20, 2006
    10
    This is the best Bond movie I've seen in 15 years, I'd have to say Daniel Craig really surprised me here. I was very skeptical about him playing the new bond, but boy was I ever mistaken! He flat out dominates every other actor back to Sean Connery. This film has given me a new hope for the future of Bond!!
  18. KennethK.
    Nov 21, 2006
    10
    Most satisfying movie experiece I've had in quite some time. Daniel Craig is the best Bond of all time. No question.
  19. RedRose
    Nov 21, 2006
    10
    1) This is the best bond film of the last 20 years; 2) Daniel Craig is the best bond since Connery; 3) The pacing is absolutely perfect. 120 mins is just about right. Those reviewers complaining that 120 mins is too long either have ADD or I suspect are very young/immature and do not have the patience to sit through this kind of film as they have most likely been force fed on a diet of Mission Impossible/XXX etc and are used to seeing films run no longer than 100 mins. 4) This is the best film of the year. Vastly superior to the overrated Departed. BRITAINS FAVOURITE SPY IS BACK. 10/10 Expand
  20. DanS.
    Nov 20, 2006
    10
    I'll say it now, since everyone will be saying it later anyway--Daniel Craig is likely the best Bond ever, and this is certainly the best Bond movie. None of the cheesy lasers and judo chops and bad guys falling over the railing after they get shot. This is fast-paced, dark, suspenseful, and sets a new standard of cool.
  21. RD.
    Dec 11, 2006
    10
    Very good movie. I can't compare it with other Bond movies as I have not seen them. But this is a great entertainer.
  22. Paul
    Dec 1, 2006
    10
    This movie is great. I took my parents last night (my second viewing), and they loved it, too. At the end my pop said "This is the best Bond movie I have ever seen". No disrespect to Mr. Connery, who is the best---I have to agree with my pops. Any movie where you want a repeat viewing is a 10!
  23. Peter
    Dec 14, 2006
    10
    Best James Bond movie to date. Daniel Craig really roughened up Bonds character yet still kept the cool suave aspects that make Bond...Bond.
  24. ThomL.
    Dec 15, 2006
    10
    Most well thought out Bond film since from Russia with Love. Certain people on this post don't know anything. Steve H, just so you know, this is a loyal adaptation to the first Bond novel Ian Fleming ever wrote, so chronologically, it can't be an Austin Powers rip off, and for once, a Bond girl gave a great performance. They took a bold move and threw ridiculous gadgets to the curb to make a superb, believeable espionage thriller. Expand
  25. StormG
    Dec 2, 2006
    10
    Outstanding!
  26. KatyaS.
    Dec 23, 2006
    10
    Craig certainly makes his bond debut a splash, this is exactly what the bond movies needed to bring the younger generation back to them.
  27. PatM.
    Dec 24, 2006
    10
    I loved this movie---from the initial graphics to the ending scene!!!
  28. PepitaR.
    Dec 2, 2006
    10
    Fantastic film. One word to describe the new bond and the entire film. "RAW". I loved it. The action, the romance, the mood has lingered with me through the night up to this minute.
  29. TomS.
    Dec 31, 2006
    10
    Loved the film. Fab special effects, good story line and lots of twists and turns you would'nt expect. Not like the other Bond films, but that is not a bad thing just different!!
  30. JasonL.
    Dec 3, 2006
    10
    Best Bond movie in years. After watching Craig in action, I wonder why Pierce Brosnan didn't get shafted to the cheese factory years ago. This movie has renewed my faith in the whole Bond franchise, which was starting to go into death throes. Craig has saved Bond from the garbage bin. When I tell my friends this is a good movie, they all moan until they have actually watched it, just goes to show you how tired that whole disturbing comedy trash (with John Cleese of all people) was becoming. Thank god for this movie. Expand
  31. DougM.
    Dec 6, 2006
    10
    I would rate this as second only to "Goldfinger" among Bond movies. If your only criteria is character realism, it is even the best one. Daniel Craig seems, so far, second only to Connery whose performance was so subtly brilliant that people sometimes, unfortunately, took it for granted. Craig is more like Timothy Dalton, playing it completely seriously but the film requires that. I don't think he is "better" than previous Bonds. If you look at how ridiculous those movies were in Moore's era, it made perfect sense to play them for laughs. But Craig is perfect to play a three-dimensional Bond. Expand
  32. Daz
    Dec 8, 2006
    10
    Probably the best bond movie ever. The biggest compliment I can give the movie is that it reminded me more of the Bourne films than any old Bond flick. Well done Mr Craig!!
  33. DonaldR.
    Jan 11, 2007
    10
    Bond had gotten rather bland and portentious for some time. I stopped going to theaters to see them cause well, they bored the hell out of me. But I was curious about this one because of Daniel Craig. I was never one of those who deplored his choice as the new 007. I always found him to be an interesting actor so his effectiveness in the role of James Bond comes as no surprise. What did surprise me though was the film's emotional arc. I was actually moved and saddened by the tenderness shown by this man who historically has been nothing but a hunk with a chunk of misogyny in his heart. Now I understand why. That added depth made this film all the better with its great action sequences, strong story line and believable villians. I look forward to the next chapter. Expand
  34. OLuck
    Jan 12, 2007
    10
    Really fantastic, one of the best spy movies ever. It is not getting the respect it deserves becasue fo the franchise. The direction, scripting, acting is superior, really trancends the genre. Fantastic.
  35. OLuck
    Jan 12, 2007
    10
    To tell you the honest truth, I was not ready to take the new Bond movie [Casino Royale] to seriously regardless of the critics. Aside from From Russia with Love, Dr. No and On her Majesty's Secret Service, all of the Bond movies have been gimmicky and silly. As much as I like Pierce Brosnan, all of his Bond outings have been less than spectacular in a sense that none of them were really genuine Bond films! His movies lacked the suave, sardonic manner of Connery and all of his movies were at times ridiculous (Die Another Day).
    Now lets talk about Craig.
    While Connery was an incredible Bond, he is no Daniel Craig. While the appeal and "smooth" style of Connery as Bond is iconic. Daniel Craig turns Bond into a sadistic, volatile kind of agent of blazing ferocity, kind of like how Fleming would've wanted Bond. Craig alone makes the movie so incendiary, as well as the well-produced screenplay and the other small things (The Chris Cornell song rocks!). This movie made up for the disappointment I underwent when I saw the Departed and It is easily one of the best movies I've seen in a long time.
    Expand
  36. JonathanM.
    Nov 5, 2007
    10
    I thought it was awesome, it gets better every time i watch it.
  37. JoelC.
    Mar 14, 2007
    10
    Quite possibly my favorite Bond. I was amazed this movie turned out so good after seeing what Pierce was doing to the Bond franchise. Thank god he's gone!
  38. JasonS
    Mar 18, 2007
    10
    One of the best Bond movies ever!
  39. KrisK.
    Feb 5, 2008
    10
    This was one of the best movies ever made! Thank God for Casino Royale!
  40. AllenT.
    Feb 5, 2008
    10
    Yes! They resurrected the Bond franchise!
  41. JamesCool
    Feb 5, 2008
    10
    This is one of the best movies I've ever seen.
  42. Billw
    Sep 6, 2009
    10
    One of the best James bond movies. I love the plot, Daniel are very cool and i think he is the real James bond.
  43. WesterlyQuetin
    Nov 14, 2006
    10
    In a film where Daniel Craig is praised as the best Bond ever... Eva Green steals the film and dominates cinema history with a flawless performance, surpassing performances like Liv Ullmann in Scenes from a Marriage or Meryl Streep in Sophie's Choice.

    If she is not at least nominated, she flat out deserves to win, for an Oscar... there will be hell to pay.
  44. DebbieY.
    Nov 18, 2006
    10
    Amazing.
  45. Fantasy
    Nov 18, 2006
    10
    Wow! Finally, a Bond movie that takes off the kid gloves and portrays 007 as a "cold blooded" fearless assasin. His only job is to take care of the bad guys at all costs, using crude, but unconventional ways of acheiving his objective. As for Daniel Craig, the blonde ruggedly handsome actor who portrays the new 007, don't worry about accepting him as Bond, James Bond. After about 5 minutes into the film CRAIG IS 007, and he may be the best of all time, with all due apology to Sean. He takes away the cartoon fluff of the character and instead portrays the hardness that a real agent must have wheter he works for the CIA or Brittish Intelligence. And the plot of the movie is fast paced and ends with the audience begging for the adventure to continue. Having seen every Bond film ever made from the beginning this is such a welcome holiday treat. Kudo's to all for a great production and to Daniel Craig who may be one of the best actors in the world? With this performance and also his character in INFAMOUS the Truman Capote film now playing, it won't be long before he catapults to Superstar status. Go see and enjoy! Expand
  46. MegW.
    Nov 19, 2006
    10
    Sean who? Daniel Craig is EXCELLENT as the new James Bond. He's suave, arrestingly gorgeous but believable as a cold blooded killer. The stunts and action scenes in the film are the most realistic a Bond film has had in years and the women were stunning. it was nice to see non-Hollywood actors in the film and the color of the movie took you back to the early Sean Connery Bond films. I got lost in the first few scenes thinking what decade it was set in. Clever and by far the best Bond films since the first 3. Expand
  47. BlueMan
    Nov 19, 2006
    10
    Best Bond since the begining of the series. Something for all in this one. Great action, believable characters, and interesting story line. Bond is back, with a vengeance!
  48. ChaseM.
    Nov 19, 2006
    10
    Far and away the best Bond picture in 20 years. Craig has a chance that no other actor since Connery has had in adding to the James Bond character- and he does so superbly. With a great story and a wonderful supporting cast, Casino Royale easily jumps into the top 3 Bond movies.
  49. JasonS
    Nov 21, 2006
    10
    One of the best Bond movies ever!
  50. Chris
    Nov 20, 2006
    10
    The best bond movie ever, without question. The goofiness of the old bond movies are gone. The portrayl of death makes the largest change in this movie. Bond no long kills people like cartoon characters, he murders them brutally. Enough good things cannot be said about this movie, you simply must go see it. Bond is recreated and is better than ever. And all you closet cases out there need to get over the entire Daniel Craig not being pretty thing. I'm sure he can get a lot more pussy then you. Expand
  51. ChrisB
    Nov 21, 2006
    10
    I used to be a Bond fan, now I'm a reborn Bond fan.
  52. ChazG.
    Nov 22, 2006
    10
    This film has every aspect which makes a good film great. I'm glad to see the Bond story taken more seriously than we have seen in the recent film following Goldeneye. Pros: Overall great quality film ie: Script & Cinematography were stellar. One of the best "on foot" chase scenes ever! Cons: My only complaint was the lack of some more intuitive & believable gadgets. If you are a fan of the "Old School Bond Movies" this movie is a must see. Expand
  53. AngelM.
    Nov 22, 2006
    10
    Casino Royale is by far the best Bond film in years, I am extremely happy that the producers decided to take the franchise in this new direction. As for Daniel Craig's James Bond, he has just fit nicely in the shoes of the great Sean Connery as the best Bonds on film. By far the best movie I've seen all year.
  54. KentE.
    Nov 22, 2006
    10
    As we have seen in Munich and Layer Cake, Daniel Craig has the charm and intensity he needs to be Bond. But Casino Royale has seen him make Bond his own. From the over confident swagger and quick wit to a genuine sense of menace - he got it all right. I simply cannot imagine a better Bond than Mr. Craig has given us - contemporary and classic ! That's a real feat !
  55. SETHD
    Nov 22, 2006
    10
    Rateing a bond movie, or deciding wich one is your favorite is like determining what your soda of choice is. There is no wrong answer its a matter of taste. they are all intrinsically the same. Until now. Casino Royale opens up new doors, creates a brand new atmosphere and breathes a whole new breath into an otherwise over sweet franchise. I can't regard this film high enough.
  56. KateG
    Nov 22, 2006
    10
    Best Bond movie in years, and maybe ever. Daniel Craig does a spectacular job as 007. Very impressive. Eva Green was a sensational a-typical Bond girl, who could actually act! So glad that the story came back down to earth and relied on great acting and a smart plot rather than gimmicky special effects and gadgets. Bond is smarter and darker and better because of it. Bravo!!
  57. RobertH.
    Nov 23, 2006
    10
    This has to be my favorite Bond movie yet, and I've watched every one religiously. The new Bond roars with excitement while at the same time showing that he is human and can let down his defenses to the most dangerous of foes, women. Craig shines in Casino Royale, proving that even though he doesn't necessarily look the part, he plays it better than any Bond since Connery. The only bad thing i have to say about it is that the Bond girls weren't quite as good-looking as I'd hoped, but the acting and action make up for it in the end. Expand
  58. BilB.
    Nov 24, 2006
    10
    I thoroughly enjoyed this movie. Daniel Craig pulls Bond of flawlessly. While there may not be a lot of suave womanizing in this Bond, there is a genuine roughness about him that is more believable than in any other Bond film. A must see.
  59. AnonymousMC
    Nov 25, 2006
    10
    The only reason you won't love this movie is if you're expecting the usual blow up the secret volcanoe base while still caring about whether or not my drink is shaken and not stirred plot. This is deeper, more exciting, and there isn't just and obvious badguy with a scar and a cat and a maniacal laugh.
  60. RoyG.
    Nov 29, 2006
    10
    The gadgets and plots of the previous Bond movies were over the top and cartoonish. Craig's Bond is more believable, the stunts realistic, the double and triple crosses dizzying and the conclusion left me wanting more. Great movie!
  61. BamdadS.
    Dec 2, 2006
    10
    One of the best movies ever! Awesome Cast, Awesome Story! Just watch it!
  62. LukeTheDuke
    Dec 28, 2006
    10
    A great new Bond. Daniel Craig takes Bond to a new level. Once again, another great James Bond film.
  63. anandk.
    Dec 30, 2006
    10
    awesome gr8 movie of bond, specially daniel craig to watch.
  64. grantcowans
    Dec 8, 2006
    10
    i think it was brill between me and u if i wasnt bovared what people think i would have a big cry over it because when his girlfreinf died a the end it was sad i think it explains everythink about him and why he uses his girlfriends i give 5 stars
  65. AnonymousMC
    Dec 3, 2007
    10
    Possibly the best Bond movie there has ever been. Great acting by everyone and a Bond that actually gets hurt once in awhile is much better. The only reason why people won't give good reviews is because they can't deal with change. How many times can you do the same movie over and over? Saying this movie is a failure couldn't be farther from the truth. From critical acclaim to the best box-office results for a Bond, it's anything but a failure. My personal favorite movie, can't wait for the next one.. Expand
  66. KevinB.
    Apr 17, 2007
    10
    Best Bond movie ever, I never thought anyone could be better than Sean Connery until now. Daniel Craig is the best. Excellent.
  67. jamesw
    Sep 13, 2009
    10
    The bond franchise has needed an overhaul for years, and Daniel Craig is the perfect engine. much closer to how Fleming envisioned bond in his books. an assassin, who does his job, without remorse. the first time bond has been portrayed on screen faithfully to Ian Flemming's original vision , bravo Daniel Craig, bravo !!!!
  68. RaymondM.
    Nov 18, 2006
    10
    A darker, deeper and very human Bond is delivered by Craig. Eva Green is more of an exceptional Bond Woman than a typical Bond Girl. As M, Judi Dench finally gets to excersice her acting chops opposite someone (Craig) who can hold his own and take a few bites himself. Great movie, a must see. Best Bond movie in a very, very long time.
  69. ChrisKandtKandt
    Nov 19, 2006
    10
    It was a very good movie. I've seen all of them. This one making 21. I came into it critcally tuned but came out pleasantly surprised. Daniel Craig, despite being blond, is worthy of bond in my mind. And though this movie breaks the traditional ending, it is the prequel.
  70. SheilaPechman
    Nov 19, 2006
    10
    I loved the movie. It was an edge of your seat movieand Daniel Craig was an excellent James Bond. It was fun, the plot was exciting and fast moving and Bond looked great. I have seen every Bond movie and this one was exceptional. Can't wait for more.
  71. Gary
    Nov 21, 2006
    10
    What a breath of fresh air to get away from the gadgetry and the fluff of the previous 007 to a hardcore real Secret Service Agent. Daniel Craig where have you been? Instead of the predictable escape with comic touch, there was a real story and suspense that the viewer felt and sat on the edge of his seat. Thank you for reinventing what James Bond used to be. Don't miss this!
  72. JaredBrusky
    Nov 21, 2006
    10
    Wow...thats all i can say about this movie.
  73. KristinaD.
    Nov 24, 2006
    10
    I thought that this was an amazing James Bond and that Daniel Craig and Eva Green did brilliantly. I own all the other James Bond movies and really enjoy them in general, but i thinnk that this just may become my favourite. It was well made and well acted. It makes me mad that people say that Craig couldn't be Bond because he's blonde... utterly ridiculous, he may just be one of the best Bonds. If i could rate this movie higher than a 10, i would. Expand
  74. BrianY.
    Nov 25, 2006
    10
    Nothing short of spectacular in this one! The only complaint I have is the lack of showcasing of the Bond car and other gadgets. Daniel Craig did a great job and I'm looking forward to future films!
  75. CharlieB.
    Nov 25, 2006
    10
    Definitely a 10 out of 10! The new bond movie is simultaneously a man's and a woman's dream -- it got real action and a really great story line. I used to love Roger More. Now, Daniel Craig is my new favorite Bond. And the movie itself is up there among the best Bond movies ever made.
  76. DebbieY.
    Nov 29, 2006
    10
    Amazing.
  77. AdamM.
    Nov 29, 2006
    10
    Hands down my favorite bond movie! It just goes to show how important charactor is in any film!
  78. MaganY.
    Dec 14, 2006
    10
    The best Bond film in a while Daniel Craig is unlike any other 007 before him. He may lack the looks of Pierce Brosnan, but he compensates in charisma that rivals Sean Connery.
  79. KipM.
    Dec 19, 2006
    10
    Though I couldn't jump on the bandwagon of hating "Die Another Day," this movie's certainly better than the last effort, and possibly than any others. Time will tell if Daniel Craig will improve on the legend of Sean Connery, but for now we'll just say he's excellent. Kudos for making a story that's almost half-century old completely modern and timely. Like all Bond films, "Casino Royale" is too long but there's so many wow sequences (like the free-running in the beginning) that you're sure to keep your eyes fixed on the screen. Expand
  80. thommythom
    Dec 22, 2006
    10
    this is great. my favorites comments happen to be "where were all the gadgets" hey fucknut, ever seen from russia with love? and this one "they should have just highjacked nuclear weapons". oh im so sorry that this one had a unique plot and whoever doesnt like the dialogue is just dumb. the man responsible for writing the last two best picture winners wrote that. suck on that you haters. action was great too. fast, brutal, and more real than most bonds Expand
  81. susanaw.
    Dec 23, 2006
    10
    Having watched every bond out there at least 4 to 5 times, this is the best yet for me, Daniel Craig is an actor and if they continue to give him a good script, he will set teh franchise on fire! I have already watched this one 3 times now...can you tell i am a fun! Craig blew me away, he brought the real bond to life...raw and real! bravo craig! The naysayers can go and eat some humble pie now! THat physique.....oh !Yeah! see you next time! Expand
  82. PhilM
    Nov 19, 2008
    10
    A believable spin on the ridiculous campiness of the older Bond's. Darker, grittier, yet still with the charm, just subtler. Just because somethings not exaggerated to the point of campiness doesn't mean it's not there. The best Bond.
  83. WilliamB.
    Dec 12, 2009
    10
    This is the best Bond film of them all, due in large part to Craig's take on Bond, which is not only masterful, but also unprecedented.
  84. Oct 9, 2010
    10
    This is the best Bond movie. Bond is thoroughly human: He's hit, he recoils. He cuts, he bleeds. The series had gone to absurd levels of incredulity through the Roger Moore and Pierce Brosnan years. This movie brought the films back to a human scale, and it's all the more powerful. Daniel Craig dominates the movie as Bond.
  85. Nov 16, 2012
    10
    After reviewing Skyfall, I thought that I ought to give Casino Royale the 10 it so royally deserves in my opinion. Dench and Craig are my all-time favorite actors and are cast perfectly, the story is deep with a gut-wrenching twist. This is hands down the best Bond movie I've ever seen. And now I am going to go see it again ;)
  86. May 26, 2011
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The twenty-first James Bond film, second directed by Martin Campbell (GoldenEye), and the first to star Daniel Craig as 007.
    After the way-over-the-top CGI heavy â
    Expand
  87. Jun 1, 2011
    10
    Easily one of the best, is not the best, Bond films since the days of Connery. The dark and gritty tones are a welcome change of pace, and the story still manages to infuse humor in the right places, and in my opinion also in the right quantity. Easy 10.
  88. Sep 28, 2011
    10
    This film is fantastic! Especially the chase at the beginning. Loved every second of it. They've got the right balance between action and developing the story. It's not boring to watch, but isn't guns going off all the way. Nicely done.
  89. Feb 18, 2013
    10
    I bet the big wigs at MGM are laughing and making crude gestures to all the doubters who petitioned to have Daniel Craig removed as the new Bond, and they should be, because there was no mistake, and what has been crafted one of the most flawless films in the past decade. This is not the Bond everybody knows, gone are the gadgets of Brosnan or the suave of Connery,not only does Casino Royale basically cancel out the rest, as Bond has yet to receive his '00' status, but it creates a whole new type of character that we have not yet seen. The opening black and white scene paints a very different agent to what we are accustomed to..fist fighting with a man in a toilet, beating each other senseless and slamming each other into sinks until Bond eventually drowns his victim, this is a new, dark and gritty direction that is brilliant in every way.
    Judi Dench returns as a more centered and grounded M, who tasks Bond with infiltrating the terrorist operation of Le Chiffre (Mals Mikkelsen) who employs a bomb maker that Bond chases in a breathtaking parkour scene through a construction site.
    After Bond foils Le Chiffre's terrorist attempt in a Miami airport, he is entered into a poker game involving Le Chiffre to attempt to bankrupt him to the end of MI6 using him to bring down a terrorist organisation.
    With Eva Green taking the female lead as Vesper Lynd, this is a Bond film that is very much human, with touches of realism that paint a very different picture, he bleeds, he is reckless, and doesn't seem to give a damn about anything, and the writing team have taken on this leap to show Bonds complete disregard for what we are use to like the utter destruction of a brand new Aston Martin, ("Shaken or Stirred?" "Do I look like I give a damn?")
    Daniel Craig portrays a man who has the skill set and aura of Jason Bourne, but with a vulnerable state of insecurity and isolation.There is enough action to rival the biggest of blockbusters, with carefully choreographed scenes and brilliant set pieces including an airport chase along the runway, it can't be stressed enough that Craig is portraying a very serious and realistic 'operative', and not a 'secret agent'.
    Not only is this the best Bond movie in its long history, but also one of the best films to appear this decade.
    Expand
  90. Dec 14, 2011
    10
    Welcome back James! This is a movie I NEVER expected to see as a lifelong fan of 007. That is, a movie that is just as good as the classic Connery era films. And coming after the atrocious and embarrassing Die Another Day it came as even more of a pleasant surprise. Daniel Craig is an exceptional James Bond, part swaggering Connery, part intense Dalton. The action is exciting and thrilling, without any of the naff CGI used in the previous couple of films, and the story is one of very vintage Bond intrigue. The best Bond film in 30 years. Expand
  91. Dec 27, 2012
    10
    Craig's introduction the the Bond role is filled with action, suspense, and a dark new take on James Bond himself. Easily the closest movie adaptation of Bond to Ian Fleming's novels, it shows that Bond can be edgy and dark, even gritty and outright cringe-worthy at times. To put it into perspective, Daniel Craig is the ANTI Roger Moore. He's dark, serious, emotionless, and brutal. Just like Ian Fleming's original adaptation. So if you prefer a lighter bond, he may not be for you. But if you love Fleming's Bond, you'll probably adore Craig. Expand
  92. Nov 17, 2012
    10
    Maybe it's a little bit slow, but it's complex and "no-cliché" plot, with a spectacular acting from Daniel Craig makes Casino Royale the best James Bond film ever made.
  93. Nov 28, 2012
    10
    "Casino Royale" is the story of, MI6 agent, James Bond's (Daniel Craig) first mission. Fresh off of receiving the coveted "007" status, Bond begins the long and elaborate task of bankrupting the world's top terrorist financier, Le Chiffre (Mikkelson). Now, I am, proudly, a James Bond fan myself and when I had heard that they were going to reboot the franchise ala "Batman Begins"; I was elated. Because honestly the last few Bond films have been something off a showcase of silliness. After watching "Casino Royale" I can safely say that this film effectively restores the Bond film series, as well as the James Bond name, to everything that author Ian Fleming had originally intended. This film features one of the most dynamic portrayals of the character I've ever seen on film. Sure, everything from the previous films is there (the charm, wit, etc.), but Actor Daniel Craig brings some aspects to the character I've never seen before. He does a really profound job at accentuating just how much of a cold bastard 007 really is. Though he also does a good job at depicting the more loving side of Bond -like I said. . .dynamic. With all these different shades of Bond in tow, Craig creates, quite possibly, my favorite representation of the character. Eva Green does a fine job in her role as the beguiling treasury agent, Vesper Lynd. Green and Craig construct a deep kind of chemistry that I have yet to see any other Bond and "Bond-girl" develop on film. Also, cheers to Mads Mikkelson for playing one of the creepiest Bond-villains I've ever seen. In terms of technicalities, The camerawork is very clean, and editing is logical and accurate. The soundtrack utilizes the classic Bond Theme, but it also employs some extra nuances that I found to be quite suitable for the overall tone of the film. The screenplay is very well written, giving Bond some of the funniest lines I've ever heard his character say. The action is there too, as this movie features some of the coolest and most intimidating set pieces I've seen on film. I mean like some real "Uncharted-esque" stuff happens in this movie- pretty awesome. Anyways, I sincerely enjoyed "Casino Royale", for it re-establishes the James Bond franchise in a place that I feel is very fresh and provocative. Expand
  94. Dec 22, 2012
    10
    Finally, a James Bond movie that does not solely rely on gadgets and numerous instances of things blowing up to be entertaining. Another reason why Casino Royale is so good is due to the fact that Daniel Craig plays the most serious James bond in the franchise history. Casino Royale is a rare 10.
  95. Dec 23, 2012
    10
    Best Bond movie ever, those who don't agree obviously don't know a good movie. To all of those guys who hate this movie ( luckily there aren't many, u mad brooooooo?)
  96. May 3, 2013
    10
    A new bond is always good in the new refreshed 007 movies. 21st century James Bond is entertaining and has a leveled amount of violence. Excellent plot and you MUST see this. Really, anyone who gave it 5 or under did not actually see the movie or needed glasses, or they might have been watching clique Casino Spoof.
  97. R.Nichols
    Apr 8, 2007
    9
    Best Bond movie by far. Comparisons to Bourne Supremacy are right. Finally a Bond that's not a wimp, but a killer. Craig is the right actor for the role. Great casting. Hope the next Bond movie keeps with this new approach to Bond.
  98. DrewF.
    Nov 20, 2006
    9
    Best Bond film since "The Living Daylights" (So that's nearly 20 years!) I admit to being less then enthused when i first heard that Daniel Craig was selected to be the new Bond. I revoke ANY negativity i previously expressed. This guy is easily the best Bond since Sean Connery. Film has some sparkling banter between Bond and M, and Bond and Vesper. Movie starts off with one of the most exciting action sequences that the series has ever seen. Great performance by Mads Mikkelsen as the most believable and sympathetic Bond villain to come along in awhile. Great entry in the series. Expand
  99. ChrisF
    May 14, 2007
    9
    As a massive Bond fan this recent remake of the original book of Fleming's series fits the overall storyline extremely well. All of those who ive low ratings for no plot or a stop-start sequence, you are contradicting yourselves in your reviews, the film needed the slower poker sections to add tension and depth to the characters and the story, but adds the fast-paced action sequences to bring about the necessary climax to each event. And for all those whining about the lack of the "usual" bond plot items, ie, the moneypenny scene, the gadgets, the corny one-liners; again these are not part of the plot, nor is it the bond of the story that is being told in this film, and for those that claim you are bond fans, you should understand this and appreciate it for what it is, even if it doesn't cover your checklist. For those complaining about the violence, it's unnecessary, it's too dark, too gory, etc; since when have we NEVER seen bond bleed? See Dalton, or Pierce, however, what we do see is an invincible Craig coming back to the table after a huge fight and again a poisoning! And then we see the suave, but still too young and inexperienced to be charming, coming back to match wits against his evil and over-the-top adversary, with plenty of glib comments, "that last hand almost killed me". How anyone could be blind enough to give this film less than 5 is beyond me, especially so-called "bond fans". The only thing left to say about the movie to prove all these confused nay-sayers wrong, is that people voteed with their wallets, making this film one of the top 40 (at least) ranked global grossing films of all time, leaving us with little to doubt, BRING ON BOND #22! Expand
  100. JadaG.
    Dec 1, 2006
    9
    This film action packed from beginning to nearly end then end. There was one moment that lasted a good 5 minutes that was too long, but everything else meet or exceeded standards. Go and see for yourself.
Metascore

Universal acclaim - based on 38 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 37 out of 38
  2. Negative: 0 out of 38
  1. What a relief to escape the series' increasing bondage to high-tech gimmicks in favor of intrigue and suspense featuring richly nuanced characters and women who think the body's sexiest organ is the brain.
  2. Reviewed by: Todd McCarthy
    80
    Craig comes closer to the author's original conception of this exceptionally long-lived male fantasy figure than anyone since early Sean Connery.
  3. This Bond is haunted, not yet housebroken, still figuring out the persona. In Casino Royale, the reset button has been pressed in the manner of "Batman Begins."