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Die Another Day (2002)
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There are only two “cons” to this 20th James Bond adventure, and both involve Madonna — firstly, the singer's grating theme song and, secondly, her dire cameo as a fencing instructor. These trivialities aside, it's heartening that the much-loved Boys' Own franchise has rarely looked better, even if the familiar “quash the evil megalomaniac and unmask the traitor” plotline is more preposterous than ever (invisible car, anyone?). Such continued vigour is largely down to director Lee Tamahori's fluid style and the relentless pace, which effortlessly propels the film's intense action around the globe. From North Korea and London to Cuba and a dazzling Icelandic snow palace, the locations are inspired. Pierce Brosnan is on fine form (though he's let down by some poor CGI) as a betrayed and vengeful 007, combining the secret agent's usual charm and throwaway wit with true toughness and a streak of venom. Such character-broadening traits ensure that the format never feels stale, while the introduction of Halle Berry as a genuinely equal, if underdeveloped, female sidekick is a coup. SF
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Tell us what you think
Email us at rtfilmcomments@bbc.co.uk to tell us what you think of this film. Your comments may appear in Radio Times magazine.
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Running time
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126min
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Country of origin
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UK / US
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Genre
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Spy Adventure
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Alternate title
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Beyond the Ice,
Bond 20
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Original language
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English
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Screenplay
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Neal Purvis, Robert Wade, from characters created by Ian Fleming
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Theatrical distributor
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20th Century Fox
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UK cinema certificate
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12A
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UK cinema release date
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November 2002
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UK video release date
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May 2003
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Film certification logos reproduced by kind permission of BBFC |
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