Common Sense Media Review
Darker than usual Bond; too violent for tweens.
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Why Age 14+?
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Casino Royale (2006)
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 22 parent reviews
Parents say this film is a gritty and intense action movie that features heavy violence and disturbing scenes, particularly a graphic torture sequence, making it unsuitable for younger viewers. While many appreciated the strong plot and Daniel Craig's portrayal of Bond, several parents felt it was inappropriate for children and recommended it for older teens instead.
- violent content
- suitable for older teens
- strong plot
- impactful performances
- intense scenes
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 91 kid reviews
Kids say the film is dark and intense, featuring extreme violence, including graphic torture scenes and bloodshed, which some deem inappropriate for younger viewers. Despite its violent content, many praise Daniel Craig's portrayal as the best Bond and highlight the engaging action and plot, making it a must-see for older teens and adults.
- gritty characterization
- intense violence
- graphic torture scenes
- recommended for older teens
- action-packed film
- acclaimed performance
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
Starring Daniel Craig as Secret Agent 007, director Martin Campbell's CASINO ROYALE takes viewers back to James Bond's beginnings, when M (Judi Dench) elevates him to the extra-special rank of 007. Bond's early 007 adventures involve all manner of brutality and rule-breaking, as he fixes on his targets with unshakable ferocity. First he chases one man through the "Nambutu Embassy" in Madagascar, wreaking havoc and, as M puts it, violating "the only inviolate rule of international relations." Later, he beds a villain's wife (Caterina Murino) to extract information, leaving her open to terrible retribution. And then he destroys much of the Miami Airport in order to stop a bomb's explosion. All of this is warm-up for the big showdown with the requisite dastardly, damaged villain Le Chiffre (Mads Mikkelsen), which centers around a high-stakes poker game. Here Bond is aided by stunningly beautiful Bond Girl and British treasury operative Vesper Lynd (Eva Green), earnest CIA agent Felix Leiter (Jeffrey Wright), and dapper MI6 agent Mathis (Giancarlo Giannini), though Bond gets impatient when they cramp his style.
Is It Any Good?
This Bond is cunning and even elegant, providing the franchise with a much-needed shot of raw energy. But although the details are right, Casino Royale is bogged down by the plot, which spends too much time on the poker game and a montage sequence version of Bond and Vesper's inevitable romance. Such generic diversions detract from Craig's strengths, which are based in deft gestures, nuanced glances, and the deadpan delivery of the occasional joke. (Asked whether he wants his martini shaken or stirred, Bond looks annoyed: "Do I look like I give a damn?") This Bond -- fast, mean, and vulnerable enough to appeal to a new generation of fans -- will likely revive the franchise. By the time of the next installment, perhaps the script will keep up with him.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about what makes Bond so appealing. What does his behavior in Casino Royale say about images of manliness?
How does the movie characterize this new Bond as both ruthless and charismatic? Who's your favorite Bond?
Movie Details
- In theaters : November 16, 2006
- On DVD or streaming : March 13, 2007
- Cast : Daniel Craig , Eva Green , Judi Dench
- Director : Martin Campbell
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Columbia Tristar
- Genre : Action/Adventure
- Run time : 144 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : intense sequences of violent action, a scene of torture, sexual content and nudity.
- Last updated : February 13, 2026
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