Review: No Time To Die is a bloated but spectacular James Bond film

No Time To Die brings Daniel Craig’s stint as James Bond, the resourceful 007 agent, to a fitting conclusion. This is a thrilling blockbuster with an emotional edge that will leave audiences breathless. With this performance, Craig secures his position for the best Bond iteration. It’s a tremendous finish to a decade-long journey that won’t disappoint fans that have been waiting patiently.

The film premiered in London yesterday and it undoubtedly left a lasting impression on those in attendance. In No Time To Die, James Bond is trying to enjoy retirement but is sucked back into the world of espionage. He has agreed to assist a friend to investigate the whereabouts of a kidnapped scientist. Bond’s future is at stake when he comes up against a villain that is determined to put millions of lives in jeopardy. Everything that has transpired since Casino Royale culminates in this action-packed conclusion. Successfully tying up several story elements, No Time To Die could cement this era of Bond as the most consistent to date.

After many delays, this highly anticipated movie will finally arrive in theaters next week to kick off the month of October with a bang. Admittedly, this is up there with Spectre, if not better at times because of the emotional aspects. The action impresses once again, and there is a constant feeling of urgency that amplifies the experience. Future films attempting to top the accomplishments of this series will be exciting to witness. Moviegoers know James Bond will return, but I can’t see anything topping Craig’s run with the character.

Is No Time To Die good?

No Time To Die works for many reasons, but the most impressive aspect is Craig’s portrayal this time around. The withdrawn 007 agent has an emotional side that is explored perfectly in this finale with Lea Seydoux reprising her role as Madeline Swann, Bond’s current lover.

The film showcases the two enjoying each other early on before the explosive action commences. Craig’s performance is more desperate here given what’s on the line for Bond as he prepares to confront Lyutsifer Safin. A compelling villain brought to life by Rami Malek’s profound dedication to the role.

Lyutsifer and Madeline are old enemies, now Madeline is forced to confront her old friend if she hopes to keep her loved ones safe. No Time To Die’s biggest issue is Lyutsifer being rather thin in terms of a villain. Malek impresses with his stellar acting, but not enough time is spent developing his character.

His terrorist motivations aren’t unclear, just positioned like an afterthought compared to the film’s bigger moments. As exciting as it was to see Craig maneuver his way around Bond’s emotional depth, his chemistry with Malek creates a gripping set of scenes towards the film’s final act.

Malek and Craig play off each other very well, which creates a mesmerizing sequence of events as Bond races to stop Lyutsifer. Sometime after Bond’s departure, a new agent named Nomi filled in the 007 status and has been an impressive asset.

No Time To Die balances its stunning action with humor that comes mostly from Bond and Nomi’s playful interactions. A sibling rivalry of sorts that never grows dull. Lashana Lynch makes Nomi a character you can easily get behind. I’d argue that Lynch is the standout in terms of creating a memorable character. She’s charming, confident, and her attitude towards Bond gives the film its humor.

Hans Zimmer has put together another captivating score that gets under your skin, specifically during the film’s conclusion. During those moments, Zimmer’s score truly sends chills down your spine while also keeping you intrigued. Visually, No Time To Die is a stunning piece of cinema. It features impeccable set pieces, thrilling action, and award-worthy cinematography to close out this era. However, the film can feel like it’s dragging in between the action unfolding.

No Time To Die’s bloated runtime will be felt by audiences

While it’s an impressive conclusion, No Time To Die can feel like it has overstayed its welcome. What’s more frustrating is knowing how long the film is and the wasted potential of creating a bigger platform for its villain.

Personally, if not for Cary Joji Fukunaga’s great direction, this experience could have been a misfire with its bloated runtime. The framing allows a feeling of intimacy to reign over every scene, even when the romantic aspect takes a break.

After the opening act, it takes a minute for the film to capture your attention completely. Once the action picks up, audiences are treated to an engaging experience like no other before it ceases with an emotionally draining finale. Thankfully, minor issues with the script and pacing don’t take away from the overall experience. No Time To Die is a remarkable film that should be experienced in a theater.

No Time To Die brings this epic series to a satisfying close that Bond fans will rejoice over. Craig will be remembered for his magnificent stint as the 007 agent. But someone else will fill in the role in the future. Until then, fans that have been waiting for No Time To Die can experience the hard-hitting blockbuster in theaters next weekend.

Will you be watching No Time To Die as soon as it arrives in theaters next weekend?