A woman and teenage boy holding his award on stage at awards ceremony

Kate Allen (Head of Amnesty International) presents David Ritchie (winner 15-19 category) with his award

Name: David Ritchie
Category: 15-19
School/College: Penicuik High School, Midlothian
Film: Quantum of Solace

Stirred, not shaken

Bond is back for the twenty-second time, and sadly, he’s past his best. Setting such a high mark with the previous film, this film was bound to be a let down. Removing the gadgets and the crazy, unbelievable villains Bond fans love so much, seems to be a bad idea.

This plot is different to all the others, with filmmakers focusing on making a grittier, realistic Bond. The plot follows Bond seeking revenge for the woman he lost in Casino Royal. With two years between the two films, and no recap at the start of this film, there are many things you forget, which leaves the audience confused at who some of the characters are, and story event.

The main villain is pointless, Dominic Greene, head of the Quantum organisation. He isn’t evil, or scary enough to be a Bond villain, with no distinguishing features, no metal jaw, or love of gold. He doesn’t seem important as Bond doesn’t have a mission, merely a minor inconvenience, simply put in to add another painful half an hour to this film.

The only thing that is good about this film is Daniel Craig’s portrayal of Bond. His acting is the only thing that keeps the audience interested. This realistic and dark Bond, although not traditional, seems to please Bond fans. He’s heartless and callous, but the only thing in this film with emotions.

This film is dull and tedious and definitely not Bond. Bring back Bond!

Winners 2009

See Winnners for: 2008 | 2007

Young Film Critic

15–19 year range

David Ritchie
Sensory Impaired Category
Abbie Donohoe

11-14 year range

Hannah Pusey
Sensory Impaired Category
Jonny Hall

7–11 year range

Hammad Raza
Sensory Impaired Category
Olivia Ansah-Smith

Mini Film Fan

4–7 year range

Harry Keen

Film Club Award

Primary category

Phoebe Lawrence

Secondary category

Rosemary Collins

Congratulations to all
the 2009 YFC nominees