With a substantial budget, the production featured elaborate set pieces and diverse locations, from the Bahamas to Montenegro. Other reviewers responded negatively, including Tim Adams of The Observer, who felt the film came off uncomfortably in an attempt to make the series grittier. Raymond Benson, the author of nine Bond novels, called Casino Royale "a perfect Bond film." On its US opening day, Casino Royale was on top with $14,741,135, and throughout the weekend grossed a total of $40,833,156, placing it second in the ranking behind Happy Feet ($41.5 million). However, Casino Royale was playing in 370 fewer cinemas and had a better average ($11,890 per cinema, against $10,918 for Happy Feet). It earned $167,445,960 by the end of its run in North America, marking what was at the time the highest-grossing film of the series, before being surpassed by Quantum of Solace's $168.4 million.
Realising that somebody talked about the terrorist plot, Le Chiffre tortures Solange to death. 60 years, 6 actors, and 26 films later, which James Bond movies stand out among the others and are the best place for new fans to start? I recall one night on our European cruise when we went to the casino on a formal night, all dressed up (though that's not necessary) and eager to bask in the glamour. While our ship was anchored offshore of Nice (Villefranche), France, along the French Riviera, we imagined we were high rollers in a James Bond movie set in Monte Carlo's legendary 19th-century casino in nearby Monaco. We sipped martinis and soaked up the glittering decor and ambient buzz of the shuffling cards, spinning balls and blackcoin.co pinging machines. Are drinks free in the casino on Royal Caribbean cruises, you may be wondering. Complimentary drinks are offered in the casino to Prime, Signature and Masters guests.