THIS much-anticipated action film opens as we would all hope — with a spectacular car chase through the historic streets of Siena, Italy, culminating in a pursuit over the rooftops which recalls the breathtaking Morocco sequence from The Bourne Ultimatum.

It's no surprise many of the behind-the-scenes crew have close ties to the Bourne franchise, including co-editor Richard Pearson, second unit director Dan Bradley and stunt coordinator Gary Powell.

Director Marc Forster ensures the pace doesn't slacken for the opening hour, including a fist-fight on a series of ropes and pulleys, a high-speed boat chase and an aerial dogfight.

Quantum Of Solace is the first film where the principal lovely doesn't disrobe and succumb to James's charms.

Amusingly, there is more sexual tension between M and her headstrong protege. Bond is evidently losing his touch.

Following the death of Vesper Lynd (in Casino Royale), Bond joins M to interrogate Mr White, part of a secret organisation responsible for his beloved's demise.

"The first thing you should know is that we have people everywhere," smirks Mr White, who has good reason to feel cocky.

The trail of evidence leads to beautiful Haiti, where Bond meets the enigmatic yet alluring Camille, a woman pursuing a secret vendetta against ruthless businessman Dominic Greene and his associate, the exiled General Medrano.

Greene and his allies plan to sweep Medrano back to power, overthrowing an entire Latin American regime, in exchange for a seemingly worthless piece of desert.

As the vengeful British agent edges closer to discovering the identities of the men responsible for Vesper's death, he takes justice into his own bloody hands, clashing with old friends Felix Leiter and field agent Mathis.

This Bond is colder, a fully fledged killing machine, a man who has hardened himself to the world after losing the love of his life.

He is a more realistic Bond, one better suited to the uncertain 21st century.