GoldenEye (1995)
1995
PG-13
130 Minutes
James Bond must unmask the mysterious head of the Janus Syndicate and prevent the leader from utilizing the GoldenEye weapons system to inflict devastating revenge on Britain.
User Review
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WHAT I LIKED: After the longest break in the franchise's history, many expected Martin Campbell's 'Goldeneye,' to be a complete series reboot, and whilst we'd really have to wait until his 'Casino Royale,' for that, it is arguable that this is the first somewhat self-aware Bond film. There's a lot of talk in the script about about the affects of the killing and the absurd, problematic nature of Bond's behaviour, and whilst that was on show in previous films, noone ever really discussed it with him like they do here. That and an attempt at a personal relationship with the mission in the form of an ex-colleague's betrayal makes for a little character development, and that's a great thing especially when introducing a new iteration.
Brosnan plays the character with all the assured confidence, class and coolness of an early Roger Moore with a little of Dalton's gritty edge and slightly vexed sarcasm, and that makes him look very at home in the role from the off. Couple that with some great action that's a little more contemporary in its execution than many previous installments, and you've got yourself a decent introduction to a new Bond after many years of absence.
WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE: The only trouble with Brosnan's portrayal is - like with Roger Moore in his early days - he seems so assured and unflustered that no torment or difficulty is every really felt. The whole betrayal thing is rather under-developed, and all in all it's hard to believe in any of the more serious stuff in the script when the lead just plays everything so cool.
VERDICT: An albeit very classy introduction to a new Bond, 'Goldeneye's attempts at character-development and self-awareness fall a little flat because Brosnan just plays it all so cool.1 member likes this review.
