There is something about spies. About agents who do battle undercover and across countries. Espionage films have always had a following and the most successful franchise is without a doubt Ian Fleming's 007: James Bond. For over 50 years Bond has captivated audiences. Many actors have coveted the role of this flawed but great example of "British fortitude". The most memorable are Sean Connery, Roger Moore, and Pierce Brosnan. Connery conveyed the stout yet strong willed side of Fleming's fictional hero. Mr. Moore captured the Casanova side of 007. Pierce Brosnan brought out the debonair and charming side of Bond. Then enter Daniel Craig, who portrays 007 in a multitude of different shades. Craig is compelling to watch because his Bond is a mix of the former masters. Craig has the charm, the wit, the boldness, and mettle that makes Bond a beloved character. Craig also brings his own unique complexity to the 007 character who acts as MI6's paladin battling the pernicious forces that lurk in the "shadows."
Skyfall is a spectacular film. It combines the best elements of Fleming's world and displays them in the most opulent and beautiful light. Skyfall is both a spy thriller and a art film. On one hand the film is about Bond, M, and the Nemesis Silva. Beyond the plotline are landscapes which cross continents and can transport you to other cultures.
ISTANBUL
Skyfall opens in Istanbul (Turkey) where James finds fellow agents have been attacked and a computer hard drive has been stolen. The former center of the world, better known to us in history as Constantinople, shimmers like an ancient piece of antiquity. At one point Bond is in pursuit of Beatrice, the man who stole the hard rive/ 007 finds himself driving a motorbike on the rooftops of Istanbul and riding right through the Bazaar. The Middle Eastern ambience is in stark contrast to Bond in his suite in pursuit. An ancient world surrounds two warriors who with modern technology pitch battle on rooftops, streets, and eventually a train.
CHINA
After narrowly escaping death, Bond returns to Britain to resume his post. Once fit for active service, 007 is commissioned to China where he kills Beatrice and cashes in a chip. There at the gambling tables 007 meets Severine, the woman who will lead him to Silva and the answers MI6 is looking for. China's landscape is a contrast between Shanghai, which sparkles like an techno-metropolis of LED light; while Macau is candle lit and more traditional in Chinese design.
SCOTLAND
Scotland is the source. Skyfall turns out to be not some program or weapon, but 007's birthplace and family estate. There in a rural farm country Bond and M must make their last stand against Silva and his soldiers. The old world comes alive in the final act. It almost has an earth real feeling, as if a fairytale is taking place. And yet the modern world collides with this medieval manor and It's end is not unlike the fire that shall fall from the sky on Judgment Day.
ENGLAND
England is featured throughout the film, but it is most distinct in the epilogue, as Bond, Britain's Banneret (knight) stands watch over the skyline that contains Big Ben (Elizabeth Tower), Westminster Abby, and Parliament. The whole of England's history is before Bond and he stands guard, as a watchman who will not cease from defending it.
Skyfall is a film that can be enjoyed for It's story, It's characters, and It's scenery. Unlike the previous installments which swayed between believability and fantasy; Skyfall is a realistic journey. For once James is not immortal or omnipotent. We see a man who is "strong in will" but being made "weak by time." In Bond we see the resolve of ritters (knights) who have long since perished. In James is the unyielding heart that every Christian should have in their pursuit to serve Christ. While Bond is not the best role model for believers, his determination and devotion despite his occasional distasteful behavior is inspiring. 007 does not let his sinful nature stop him from doing his duty. Nor should we! If we stumble, we can call upon Christ to raise us up again and fight the good fight in the "shadows."
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