Spectre, the 24th instalment in the James Bond film series, is set to air on ITV tonight at 9.35pm. The 2015 release sees Daniel Craig star for the fourth time as the fictional MI6 agent James Bond, directed by Sam Mendes.
Fans praise the film despite mixed reviews
Released in the shadow of Skyfall, the 2012 blockbuster hit, Bond fans' expectations were higher than ever. At the time, Spectre received mixed reviews from critics, and viewers remain divided on their opinions, but it was a success, grossing $880 million worldwide.
One viewer shared a review on Rotten Tomatoes, writing: "This is actually one of my favourite movies of all time. I know this is often looked at as one of the least great bond movies, but there's just something about it to me that I love. Well-done action, more serious tone, less dialogue… just so good all around."
Another fan wrote: "Another Mendes masterpiece! This just keeps getting better. Bond is more exposed, more dramatic, and has a more sophisticated ambiance. Fast-paced, as always. Stellar cast all shine convincingly in character. Again, extremely intelligently written and executed."
Plot and cast details
The film follows Bond as he goes rogue to investigate Spectre, a secret terrorist organisation linked to a ring he recovered from an assassin. With new information from Q and Moneypenny, he tracks down the former adversary Mr White with the promise of protecting his daughter in exchange for new information leading to the syndicate's leader.
He uncovers a global criminal network led by his adoptive foster brother Franz Oberhauser, known as Ernst Stavro Blofeld. Bond handles this discovery while fighting a bureaucratic takeover of MI6 in London.
The cast includes Christoph Waltz as Bond's nemesis and the mastermind behind Spectre, Léa Seydoux as Bond girl Madeleine Swann, alongside Ben Whishaw, Naomie Harris, Dave Bautista, Monica Bellucci, and Ralph Fiennes.
How to watch
One person shared their thoughts on Craig's performance: "A grand, stylish return to classic Bond swagger — shaken, not stirred. Critics Consensus: Spectre may not match the emotional resonance of Skyfall, but it delivers a lavish, thrilling adventure steeped in the franchise's most iconic traditions. Daniel Craig remains a commanding force as 007 — colder, sharper, and more self-aware than ever."
Spectre airs on ITV at 9.35pm tonight, Saturday 22. It is also available to rent on both Amazon Prime and Apple TV.
