SimplyAbuDhabi VII

2 6 9 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I T here are few cinema figures more iconic than James Bond. The series of films centring on the world-famous, fictional British spy – based on the timeless novels of Ian Fleming – is now in its fiftieth year, and it’s fair to say that there’s nothing quite like it. Bond films are always full of jaw-dropping action and breathtaking suspense. The character of James Bond, too, is always nothing less than riveting. Bond is the epitome of refined British class. And he also tends to have some of the best gear around – whether that’s luxury cars, state-of-the-art watches, or indeed any other kind of high-tech gadget. As lovers of luxury, gadgets and great action movies, we are of course massive Bond fans – and we’re excited beyond words about the release of Skyfall, the next Bond Movie. It’s the 23rd film in the series, and we can’t wait for it to be released in October. The timing of this film’s release is historic, as it coincides with the 50th anniversary of the Bond film series, which began with the impressive Dr No in 1962. The film involves some of the world’s biggest cinematic talents. It’s directed by the Oscar-winning Sam Mendes, who has proved his immense ability in such classic films as 1999’s American Beauty. Of course, having just one Oscar winner on board wouldn’t be enough for such a lavishly produced series. That’s why we’re equally delighted that another winner of a hugely coveted Academy Award, Javier Bardem, will be playing the film's villain – Raoul Silva. Tantalising glimpses Of course, we don’t know the plot yet, but the morsels that have been revealed so far leave us in no doubt that the film will be absolutely compelling. One thing we know is that James Bond's loyalty toM, the head of MI6, is challenged over secrets from her past. What’s more, MI6 itself is also attacked, and Bond must seek out and eliminate the threat, regardless of the cost to himself. Because Bond is such a fearless character, with immense intelligence and massive experience in serving his nation, we’re sure that he will do his very best in tackling these challenges. But the film’s situation sounds like it will push even him to the very limits. This is the kind of classic Bond film scenario that’s guaranteed to get the adrenaline pumping. And we believe – and hope – that this latest film could surpass all others in being a thrilling rollercoaster ride that leaves viewers right on the very edge of their seats. In terms of pure action and drama, there are few film series that can match the James Bond films. But if anyone thinks that this film is a straightforward blockbuster action movie, they could not be more wrong. We also know that the story will provide a probing examination of complex human emotions and psychological battles. Mendes has described Bond as experiencing "[a] combination of lassitude, boredom, depression [and] difficulty with what he's chosen to do for a living." Vibrant new life These gripping issues will surely take this Bond film to the next level, adding to the movie’s already immense appeal. This is also the area where I predict that the pure acting talent of the film’s star, British actor Daniel Craig, will really come into its own. It’s almost unbelievable to think this now, but when Craig was announced as the new Bond back in 2006, many people were sceptical about whether the role was right for him. But with a first class performance in Casino Royale, Craig did not just silence his critics – he turned them into his biggest fans. In that film’s excellent reviews, it was widely accepted that Craig did not only made the Bond role his own, but he also instilled it with a vibrant new life. Mendes has confessed that he used to be among the doubters – but he now thinks that Craig has proved a huge success in the role. He was quoted in a recent interview saying that he believed the 44-year-old actor had come through the tough experience with “flying colours”. Wealth of talent Exerting his usual magnetic screen presence, Craig will be accompanied by a wealth of acting talent, adding to the film’s richness and excitement. Javier Bardem, for example, has described his character Raoul Silva, as "more than a villain", and Craig has added that Bond has a "very important relationship” with Silva. The magnificent Dame Judi Dench will again play M – the head of MI6 and Bond's commanding officer. Skyfall will be Dench's seventh consecutive film in the role. There are few actors who can match Dench’s skill, and to our minds she seems to be getting better with each performance. Mendes has revealed that he relished working with the distinguished actor, saying: “What can we do with her that will surprise or challenge even her?" Another major star in the film will be Ralph Fiennes. He will play Mallory, a government agent with the authority to regulate MI6. Fiennes has refused to