"Casino Royale" is the twenty-first spy film in the James Bond series, produced by Eon Productions, and the first to star Daniel Craig as James Bond. It was released in 2006 and directed by Martin Campbell.
In "Casino Royale," James Bond is on his first mission as a newly promoted 00 agent. His mission leads him to Montenegro, where he must participate in a high-stakes poker game at the Casino Royale in order to bankrupt a terrorist financier named Le Chiffre. Bond is aided by Vesper Lynd, a British Treasury agent assigned to oversee the funds, and Rene Mathis, a MI6 field agent.
As Bond plays in the poker tournament, he uncovers a wider conspiracy involving Le Chiffre's plans to fund terrorist organizations. Bond must navigate treacherous waters, facing danger and betrayal, as he attempts to outwit his opponents and prevent a catastrophic attack.
"Casino Royale" is known for its gritty and realistic portrayal of James Bond, marking a departure from the more fantastical elements of some previous films. Daniel Craig's portrayal of Bond received widespread acclaim for its intensity and physicality, breathing new life into the character. The film also features Eva Green as Vesper Lynd, who delivers a memorable performance as Bond's complex love interest.
Upon its release, "Casino Royale" was a critical and commercial success, praised for its compelling story, strong performances, and thrilling action sequences. It revitalized the James Bond franchise for a new generation of audiences and set the stage for Daniel Craig's successful tenure as the iconic spy.