Overall Concept: A   The Bond series has been renewed ever since Daniel came along, but this is its freshest take yet.  Combine Craig with Sam Mendes, Roger Deakins, and Thomas Newman, and that’s a formula for a great movie regardless of it’s past.  Add in Ben Whishaw as the new Q, and this installment is off to a good start.*

Acting: B   It’s a Bond movie – acting not required.  But brilliant turn by Javier Bardem.

Script: B   It’s a Bond movie – script not required.

Cinematography:  A++    Roger Deakins – top notch, brilliant,  one of my favs

Hotness of Cast:  A+   It’s a Bond movie – hot actors required.

Wardrobe: A

Location/Setting:  A   Beautiful locations, also beautifully enhanced by great cinematography

Climax:  B

Special Effects: A

*See Chick 1’s review to read more about the drawbacks of being still just another Bond movie.  Spoiler warning.