Bond fans are in for a treat tonight as the 2015 James Bond film Spectre, starring Daniel Craig, airs on ITV at 9.35pm. Despite receiving mixed reviews from critics upon release, audiences have continued to champion the film, which was a box office success, raking in $880 million worldwide.
A Fourth Outing for Daniel Craig
Spectre, the 24th chapter in the legendary James Bond film series, sees Daniel Craig reprise his role for the fourth time as fictional MI6 agent James Bond, once again under the direction of Sam Mendes. Released in the wake of Skyfall, the hugely successful 2012 blockbuster, Bond enthusiasts' anticipations were at an all-time high, and this film appeared to rise to the occasion.
The ensemble features Christoph Waltz portraying Bond's adversary and the mysterious architect of Spectre, alongside Léa Seydoux as Bond girl Madeleine Swann. Joining them on screen are Ben Whishaw, Naomie Harris, Dave Bautista, Monica Bellucci, and Ralph Fiennes.
Fan Praise and Plot Details
One viewer posted a review on Rotten Tomatoes, saying: "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 said: "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."
The plot sees Bond operating independently to probe Spectre, a clandestine terrorist organisation connected to a ring he obtained from an assassin. Armed with fresh intelligence from Q and Moneypenny, he manages to locate his old foe Mr White, offering protection for his daughter in return for crucial details about the syndicate's leader.
Reception and Availability
He discovers a worldwide criminal empire headed by none other than his adoptive foster brother Franz Oberhauser, better known as Ernst Stavro Blofeld. Bond navigates this shocking revelation while simultaneously battling a bureaucratic coup of MI6 in London - a densely packed narrative for a single film.
One viewer shared their opinion on Craig's portrayal of Bond, writing: "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."
While the critical reception may not have quite matched that of its predecessor, Skyfall, audiences are nonetheless thrilled at the prospect of seeing Bond back on their screens once more. Spectre is due to air on ITV at 9.35pm tonight, Saturday 22; it is also available to rent on both Amazon Prime and Apple TV.
