007 Quantum of Solace

A first for the now 22 film strong series: a direct sequel! Picking up within an hour of the conclusion of Casino Royale, Quantum of Solace sees the apparent conspiracy from the first widened into a global affair, with key players in all places and Britain's best super-spy cum one man army out to tear it apart. It works almost every bit as well as the previous film, and has the advantage of not spontaneously changing genres in the third act. The focus is different however, preferring to build a larger, credible threat while a guilt- and rage-ridden Bond slowly works through the morass, killing his way to bigger and better leads. The action is remains solid if a bit over the top (though still mercifully shy of the ultra-silliness that much of the series is known for), and the characters stay as compelling as the last film. It's a fine effort all around, continuing the strengths of its predecessor, and while it really doesn't break any new ground it still remains some damn fine entertainment.

8 out of 10.

The Queen (2006)

An absolutely pitch-perfect perfomance by Helen Mirren, surrounded by solid work all around make this character examination of England's royalty's reaction to the end of Princess Diana's life a wonderful study of English culture itself. Michael Sheen shines as a newly elected Tony Blair. All good things aside, though, it lacks any kind of real emotional payoff for what is essentially a tragedy from the first ten minutes on. Your mileage may vary on the film itself, but the acting and scripting are definitely worth a watch.

8 out of 10.

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