Casino Royale

On his first mission as a 00 agent, Bond is tasked with stopping Le Chiffre, a financier linked to international terrorism, from winning a high stakes poker tournament in Montenegro. The mission blends danger and glamor as Bond partners with Vesper Lynd and Felix Leiter to enter the game that could finance a network of violence. What unfolds is a tense test of nerve, strategy and resolve under pressure, where Bond must read opponents, manage risk and stay one step ahead of a ruthless adversary. The stakes extend beyond money, as loyalties are tested and every move could spell catastrophe.

Directed by Martin Campbell, Casino Royale reimagines Ian Fleming's novel as Bond's origin story, returning the series to a grittier, more grounded tone with high stakes action.

Box office performance was strong, with Casino Royale earning hundreds of millions worldwide and solidifying Daniel Craig as the new face of James Bond.

The film reshaped the Bond formula by pairing a physically imposing yet vulnerable Bond with a procedural, character driven plot. Craig's portrayal set a new standard for the character and influenced later spy thrillers, blending realism with stylish set pieces.

Critics praised the cast, especially Daniel Craig's tough, nuanced Bond, and praised the movie for resetting the series' tone while delivering sharp plotting and suspense. Key themes include risk versus reward, the cost of espionage on personal loyalties, and the uneasy balance between duty and desire.