Quantum of Solace

Quantum of Solace picks up hours after the events of Casino Royale and deals heavily with how Bond comes to terms with the loss of Vesper Lynd. I do not recommend seeing Quantum if you have not seen Casino Royale as many parts will make very little sense. I liked the way the two movies came together and hope the continuity is continued in future bond flicks.
Overall, Quantum is very good with spectacular action/chase scenes, good acting, and a decent plot. It did seem like the plot took a back seat to the action at times. I don't know why they insist on destroying Aston Martins but they get that out of the way in the first minute this time.
Quantum of Solace has gotten many bad reviews with most complaints centering around a lack of that quintessential Bond-ness. I don't think that's such a bad thing. Up until Casino Royale, Bond had become a caricature of himself that is hard to take seriously and a far cry from the character Ian Flemming wrote about. The creators of the last two Bond films are obviously trying to re-invent Bond much like Batman Begins did for Batman. I, for one, am happy with this new direction and look forward to the next installment. I do miss the gadgets though.