THE WORLD IS NOT ENOUGH
A MGM/UA release

review by Joe Mauceri
  SYNOPSIS: M abuses her position and power for a friend, which creates a new super villain. Now it is up to James Bond to save M and the world.

REVIEW: Director Michael Apted slows down the pacing of the previous two Bond films to get in a more story and character development then usual. Not to worry, because there are still plenty of glorious action and special effect sequences. However, with Apted on board they seem to have more weight and serve the narrative.

The film opens with a bang, as the action sequences build in intensity and scale. The boat chase on the Thames is brilliantly choreographed. In fact, it is the only real chase sequence in the film. Most of the other sequences have Bond being the hunted or standing his ground. However, some of the sequences are not original. The sequence in the missile silo appears borrowed from "Broken Arrow," and the skying sequence an updating of one from "On Her Majesties Secret Service."

The plot is surprisingly well constructed. It allows more screen time for the Academy-Award winning actress Judy Dench, and gives Bond a more depth to his personality. In addition to Dench and Bronsan, THE WORLD IS NOT ENOUGH features the remarkable talents of Robbie Coltrane and Robert Carlyle. A wonderful new addition to the cast is John Cleese as R, who will be replacing the retiring Desmond Llewelyn, Q.

THE WORLD IS NOT ENOUGH is everything you've come to expect from a Bond film, and more. This is Pierce Bronsan's best Bond film of the three. Director Michael Apted does an amazing job of juggling actors, story and effects to add hustle to Bond's muscle. Hey, this is a Bond film, not an art film. It is a good Bond film. Just remember, to quote Q, "Never let them see you bleed and always have an escape plan!" James Bond will return, and THE WORLD IS NOT ENOUGH is sure to explode at the box office.

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www.jamesbond.com
 
 

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