After a skirmish in Mexico reveals clues to an evil organization, James Bond (Daniel Craig) seeks answers, chases shadows and comes face to face with the mysterious and powerful Spectre. This marks the 24th Bond film, the fourth film featuring Craig playing the legendary secret agent.

“Spectre” gets some help from a well-stocked cast, including: Ralph Fiennes as M, Naomie Harris as Ms. Moneypenny, Ben Wishaw as Q, Lea Seydoux as Dr. Madeline Swan and Dave Bautista and Christoph Waltz playing the film’s villains.

“Spectre” has many throwbacks to earlier Bond films in script, set pieces and plot. The style and suaveness of Bond are still present; Craig pulls off the “Blonde Bond” with a significant style that’s all his own.

The hulking henchman is there in the form of Bautista, always getting in Bond’s way. The shadowy organization and the aloof leader of said organization are all there. These typical Bond formula plot points make the movie feel very familiar and easy to get into. But that’s also where it falls short.

While “Spectre” is entertaining enough as an action film, and has a solid entry in the James Bond franchise, it lacks the heart and ingenuity that made “Casino Royale” and “Skyfall” so incredibly refreshing. It’s like the movie was made just to have another James Bond film, rather than to continue an enthralling, cinematic experience like “Skyfall.”

As stated before, “Spectre” is not a bad film. It’s just underwhelming that a director such as Mendes showed less potential than what he is known for.