Quantum of Solace

**High expectations harmed Quantum of Solace's reputation from the get-go but considering this film as the end of Casino Royale allows it to shine.** Many find Quantum of Solace a disappointing entry in the Daniel Craig Bond era, but I beg to differ. When viewed as a stand-alone film, I can understand frustrations with a meager storyline. But when considered the conclusion of Casino Royale, this movie becomes much better. Casino Royale ends with Bond suffering a significant loss, and Quantum allows him to take revenge. Bond is still grappling with a broken heart and is less interested in the standard Bond romantic escapades than usual. In fact, the main Bond girl of the movie is more of a partner in the film than a romantic prospect. The opening fight sequence, the action, the stunts, and the locations are some of the franchise's best. The expectations following Casino Royale were so high that Quantum of Solace never stood a chance (much like Spectre following Skyfall), but when Quantum is coupled with Casino Royale, more depth and development are added to both films.