Those familiar with Bond only through the films may find Skyfall a bit grim and not as flashy as what they're accustomed to. However, fans of Fleming's novels will discover a significant artistic breakthrough has been hatched under the guidance of Daniel Craig and Sam Mendes: this Bond, despite having no basis in a Fleming novel, has more in common with Fleming's style (and his secret agent) than any previous film in the series. The tone and characterizations would surely make Fleming proud, and to at least some of us who have faithfully followed the series since its inception, this is a welcome bounty of authentic Bond detailing. Craig and Bardem especially shine, but Fiennes, Dench, Watts, and Whishaw also excel. The only (slight) negative: the theme song, while nicely done, lacks the punch that this film deserves.