While I was a huge supporter of the idea that the Bond franchise needed a fresh start - specifically after Die Another Day featured both an invisible car and a scene in which Bond surfed on a glacial wave - it's a little sad how un-Bond 007: Quantum of Solace actually is.

It's not Daniel Craig's fault; in fact, I really like him as 007 just as I liked Pierce Brosnan, and I thought Casino Royale was one of the best Bond films ever and a refreshing return to reality. But with Solace my main question is, as the Joker would ask: why so serious? Bond used to have a good sense of humor. This film is quite entertaining as an action movie, but it barely resembles an entry in the Bond franchise. It's one thing to keep things down-to-earth and ultra-realistic; however, it's another thing to try so hard to break away from the conventional Bond that we end up longing for some of the familiar aspects we always enjoyed, even if they are cliche.

I'm not going to delve into great detail, but I will mention a few key examples.

First, Olga Kurylenko was well cast as the bond girl; she's extremely sexy and exotic, and somewhat believable as being capable enough in the numerous action scenes. But not only does Bond not have sex with her, he doesn't even try when he has the chance. Not even the slightest quip of sexual innuendo. What gives? Bond is supposed to be dedicated to the job, but bedding hot women is one of the perks. He does roll in the hay with Gemma Arterton, but beyond that you barely get the sense that he's interested in the opposite sex.

The next thing that was glaringly absent from Quantum of Solace was the complete and utter lack of spectacle. No hidden headquarters in the jungle or underwater, and no big showdown in some crazy location or on a secret vessel armed with nukes. The whole movie is so pedestrian and uncreative in comparison. Just because a movie is trying to be realistic doesn't mean it has to be dull.

I'm not saying you shouldn't go see Quantum of Solace. As a pure action movie I enjoyed it, but I certainly hope next time out Bond takes the time to enjoy a few more martinis and bed a few more women in an attempt to infiltrate the bad guys' secret lair.