CommanderBond.net
  1. Bond girl Ursula Andress to headline Autographica 14

    By Devin Zydel on 2009-07-23

    Autographica 14—the world’s largest autograph show—is now just around the corner and one of the most memorable Bond girls of all will be headlining the event: Dr. No‘s Ursula Andress.

    She will be joined by Eva Rueber-Staier, who portrayed Rublevitch in The Spy Who Loved Me, For Your Eyes Only and Octopussy as well as Olga Bisera, who portrayed Felicca in The Spy Who Loved Me. This will be the first convention event for both actresses.

    More actors and actresses from the James Bond films are expected to be announced in the upcoming weeks.

    'Dr. No'

    Autographica is unlike any other similar event you have ever attended. At Autographica you will not just see and meet the guests, but get to know them, as the entire event is held in a luxury hotel, with all the facilities that that encompass. All of our guests stay in the same hotel, so you may well find yourself having breakfast with any one of our guests.

    Most guests are available all day both days for signing, and some also offer talks or Q and A session too. In addition, and where time allows, we also have photo shoots with specific guests, and all of these can be booked in advance.

    Autographica 14 will be taking place from Saturday, 12 September through Sunday, 13 September at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole Hotel in Birmingham, UK. Specific times follow:

    • Saturday, 12 September: 11:00am – 4:00pm
    • Sunday, 13 September: 11:00am – 4:00pm

    Ticket prices are £10 per day. Early-Bird tickets are available at £15 per day.

    Note that there are only 1,000 tickets set aside each day for at the door purchases, so pre-booking is strongly recommended. Pre-booked tickets are only available to buy in advance. Phone 01959 573792 for details or visit the official website.

    Keep your browsers locked on the CommanderBond.net main page—and our brand new Twitter feed—for all the latest James Bond-related news.

  2. Private signing featuring Sir Roger Moore in September '09

    By Devin Zydel on 2009-07-22

    Bondstars.com will be holding a limited private signing with Sir Roger Moore this upcoming September.

    Roger Moore is James Bond

    Roger Moore is James Bond

    The signing by the former James Bond star will take place on 13 September and all orders must be received by 10:00am (GMT) on 7 September (unfortunately, Bondstars.com will not be able to accept own items to be signed on this occasion).

    As there is limited time with Sir Roger, it is asked if those participating would keep dedications short and simple e.g. “To Chris, Best Wishes, Roger Moore” etc. Bondstars.com have the right to edit dedications if necessary. Sir Roger Moore will only sign his name, he will not sign character names such as “The Saint” or “007”.

    The cost per signed item is £40.00 plus a £3.00 handling fee. This price includes shipping worldwide. Items will be shipped week beginning 21 September.

    For full details, including purchasing a still to be signed by Sir Roger, visit Bondstars.com.

    Keep your browsers locked on the CommanderBond.net main page—and our brand new Twitter feed—for all the latest news on James Bond-related events occurring around the world.

  3. Raymond Benson's Choice of Weapons cover art revealed

    By Devin Zydel on 2009-07-22
    Raymond Benson

    Raymond Benson

    Cover artwork has been revealed for the second forthcoming James Bond omnibus by continuation author Raymond Benson, Choice of Weapons (which can be viewed here).

    Due for release by Pegasus Books in late spring 2010, this collection will bring together Zero Minus Ten, The Facts of Death and The Man with the Red Tattoo. As an added bonus, the Midsummer Night’s Doom and Live at Five short stories, both originally published in 1999, will also be included.

    Literary 007 fans will recall that last year marked the release of The Union Trilogy—the first anthology of Benson Bond adventures. As was the case with that collection, Benson will once again provide an all-new introduction for this one.

    Amazon pre-order links are forthcoming.

    Keep watching the CommanderBond.net main page—and our brand new Twitter feed—for the most up-to-date literary James Bond coverage on the web.

  4. Residences for sale at Ian Fleming's Goldeneye estate

    By Devin Zydel on 2009-07-21

    18 residences for sale at legendary Goldeneye, Ian Fleming’s estate in Jamaica

    The late Ian Fleming’s former home has been lovingly developed into a private retreat, which blends effortlessly with the tropical environment. Set between coral reefs and tropical forests, just 18 beach cottages are now being offered for sale.

    Ian Fleming

    Ian Fleming

    Signature Residences Worldwide has added Goldeneye in the Jamaica to its select list of luxury real estate for sale.

    The18 cottages represent a unique opportunity to own a small part of the tropical paradise that inspired Fleming to write his famous James Bond novels. Fleming’s fascination and passion for Jamaica was well represented in his novels, and he often stated that without Goldeneye, James Bond would have never existed.

    The Goldeneye estate was acquired in 1977 by Island Records’ founder and music mogul Chris Blackwell and has since then been turned into a the leading celebrity boutique hotel in the Caribbean.

    Just 18 stunning, private oceanfront cottages

    Goldeneye Jamaica has been a celebrity magnet for many years, even before the hotel was created. Fleming entertained here regularly and his guests included Michael Caine, Katherine Hepburn, Errol Flynn, Elizabeth Taylor to mention just a few. The hotel has continued attracting names such as supermodel Naomi Campbell, Johnny Depp, Sting, Bono. In fact, Sting wrote the hit song, “Every breath you take,” here – testament to the muse-like powers of the property. But this is the first and very limited opportunity for private ownership.

    The residential development will extend over 52 acres of unspoiled, coastal land and be developed with minimal impact – only one residence per acre will be permitted, in keeping with Fleming’s preference for privacy. Phase 1 will offer just 18 stunning, fully furnished cottages, representing the ultimate in Jamaica luxury real estate.

    Eleven beach cottages will be built on a 500 ft sandy crescent that is sheltered by a coral reef. Classic Caribbean designs combine with contemporary comforts to create the perfect island getaway, with external showers and jalousie shutters complementing the minimal impact approach.

    Seven oceanfront Spa cottages will overlook the beautiful coral reef from a breathtaking cliff-side elevation. Located on the bluff between the Ian Fleming Villa and the new Spa, the cottages will be the centre of the Spa village, a serene enclave for those seeking the simplicity of nature and endless views.

    Plots are on average 2,900-3,700 sq. ft. All cottages are available freehold with an optional rental programme with no limitations on owner occupation.

    The Island and luxury real estate market

    The Jamaica luxury real estate market has traditionally been a less active market than other Caribbean islands, meaning considerable cost savings. Comparable real estate on Barbados and the Bahamas tends to be more than twice as expensive.

    The Island is still relatively un-developed with stunning natural beauty, including lush tropical vegetation, waterfalls and unspoilt, golden sandy beaches.

    The Goldeneye Jamaica is situated on the North shore, two hours from Montego Bay airport and 2 1/2 hours from Kingston airport by car. Private aircraft and helicopters may land at Boscobel Aerodrome – just 10 minutes away.

    Enjoy a wide range of exclusive and luxurious amenities

    As an owner of a residence at Goldeneye, you will have access to a wide range of exclusive, luxurious services including a Spa which includes 5 oceanfront treatment rooms, Hamman, sauna, and yoga deck; 2 restaurants; a delicatessen, flood-lit tennis courts, secluded private beaches and a water sports centre. Jamaica offers some of the finest snorkeling in the world.

    1-bedroom cottages range from US$750,000.

    For more information about Goldeneye, contact Signature Residences Worldwide on +44 20 70958701 or visit www.signatureresidencesworldwide.com.

    About Signature Residences Worldwide

    Signature Residences Worldwide (www.signatureresidencesworldwide.com), a leader in the sale of luxury real estate enjoys a solid reputation around the world as a cutting-edge boutique real estate company. Part of W Real Estate Group (http://www.w-realestategroup.com), founded in London in 1999, International Luxury Real Estate is an owner-managed business that leverages decades of experience.

    Keep turning to the CommanderBond.net main page—as well as our brand new Twitter feed—for all the latest James Bond news and coverage.

  5. Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson purchase A Steady Rain film rights

    By Devin Zydel on 2009-07-20

    James Bond producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson along with stage producer (and Broccoli’s husband) Frederick Zollo have grabbed the screen rights for Keith Huff’s Broadway play A Steady Rain.

    Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson

    Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson

    The Hollywood Reporter notes that Huff will adapt the screenplay in a deal for mid-six figures against $1 million.

    As previously reported on CommanderBond.net, 007 star Daniel Craig is attached to star alongside Hugh Jackman in the play, which begins production in late September at the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre in Manhattan, New York. Broccoli and Wilson are already producers on the stage version as well.

    A Steady Rain tells of two seasoned cops whose lifelong friendship is severely tested when a seemingly routine domestic disturbance call results in the death of a young boy. When the horrific truth of the situation is revealed, one of the two must take the blame for the fatal mistake.

    The play will mark the Broadway debut for Craig after starring in numerous films, the most recent of which included Quantum of Solace and Defiance.

    Keep turning to the CommanderBond.net main page–as well as our brand new Twitter feed–for all the latest James Bond news and coverage.

  6. James Bond Encyclopedia cover artwork revealed

    By Devin Zydel on 2009-07-20

    Cover artwork (click here to view) has been revealed for the latest edition of the James Bond Encylopedia by John Cork and Collin Stutz.

    The book, which is due for release on 19 October, is currently available to pre-order from Amazon.com for a discounted price off the $40.00 retail listing.

    Literary 007 fans will recall that the original edition of the book was first published in late 2007 and included details on all of the James Bond films through 2006’s Casino Royale. This new edition also adds in Daniel Craig’s Quantum of Solace.

    The original publisher’s blurb follows:

    Created in full collaboration with Eon Productions, producers of the Bond movies, this illustrated celebration of the world’s most famous super-spy examines every aspect of 007’s world, with information on his history, style, and tastes, along with A-Z guides to his adversaries, allies, gadgets, cars, and, of course, the ever-glamorous Bond girls.

    John Cork and Collin Stutz authorities on every aspect of the James Bond story, wrote the acclaimed book on the James Bond phenomenon, James Bond: The Legacy, have produced, written and directed 30 special feature documentaries for MGM’s DVD releases of James Bond films, and contributed to The Ultimate James Bond: An Interactive Dossier CD-Rom for MGM Interactive.

    For up-to-the-minute literary James Bond coverage, always turn your browsers to the CommanderBond.net main page. Be sure to check out our new Twitter feed as well.

  7. James Bond's Lotus sells for 105,000 pounds

    By Devin Zydel on 2009-07-19

    A Lotus Turbo Esprit featured in 1981’s For Your Eyes Only has sold for £105,000.

    The BBC News reports that the car sold to a Middle Eastern buyer via telephone as part of the Coys sale at Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire on 18 July.

    The car is fitted with a ski rack, which came in handy for Roger Moore’s 007 in the film. Two identical cars were supplied for the Bond film, but Edward Bridger-Stille, a director of auctioneers Coys, said the other one was blown up during a stunt.

    Mr Bridger-Stille had earlier estimated the car would fetch between £80,000 and £120,000 and said it had ‘great investment potential’ in times of economic uncertainty elsewhere.

    Keep your browsers locked on the CommanderBond.net main page—and our brand new Twitter feed—for all the latest news on James Bond-related events occurring around the world.

  8. Faulks hopes for Devil May Care adaptation

    By Matt Weston on 2009-07-19

    The James Bond International Fan Club relays a report from the Evening Standard last month in which novelist Sebastian Faulks reveals he’d like to see his bestselling 007 novel Devil May Care adapted for the screen.

    'Devil May Care'

    Devil May Care

    “One lives in hope,” the author said, adding, “Daniel Craig is a good Bond but I thought there was a little too much running and jumping in [Quantum of Solace] and the romance went out of it. It’s time to bring that back.”

    Eon Productions had previously ruled out an adaptation of Devil May Care. “We love the book, but because it is set in the 1960s, we haven’t considered making it in the near future,” producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson said at the time.

    Faulks responded, “I would have thought that if you could move Casino Royale from the 1950s you could move Devil May Care from the sixties. But Eon know what they are doing.”

    Reports surfaced last month that Eon are eying the Middle Eastern drug trade – a key element of Devil May Care – as a possible storyline for the twenty-third Bond film, which is currently in development.

    Devil May Care was released in paperback in May. The James Bond International Fan Club claims Penguin are hoping the paperback edition will outsell last year’s hardcover. The publisher are also said to be looking into new ways to market Ian Fleming’s original Bond novels.

    Keep turning to the CommanderBond.net main page – as well as our new Twitter feed – for all the latest literary James Bond news and coverage.

  9. Double or Die limited edition hardback released in Germany

    By Devin Zydel on 2009-07-18
    Original 'Double or Die (GoldenBoy)' Edition

    Original Double or Die (GoldenBoy) Edition

    A special hardback edition of Charlie Higson’s third Young James Bond novel, Double or Die, has been released in Germany.

    The Young Bond Dossier reports that this special edition of the book from publisher Arena Verlag, titled GoldenBoy, is limited to 10,000 copies.

    Higson’s third Young Bond adventure was originally released as a paperback alongside the UK release back in January 2007. This new edition follows the recent hardback releases of both SilverFin and By Royal Command.

    Young Bond fans can now order the GoldenBoy hardback from Amazon.de, where it retails for 14.95 €:

    Keep you eyes on the CommanderBond.net main page for all the latest Young Bond coverage.

  10. MGM Studios passes audit

    By Devin Zydel on 2009-07-17

    MGM says in compliance with debt covenants

    LOS ANGELES (Reuters) Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer said on Wednesday it delivered an audit opinion to its lenders showing the troubled studio is financially sound enough to continue operating and was in compliance with all of its debt covenants.

    Sources familiar with the studio, which is scrambling to refinance $3.7 billion of debt, last week told Reuters that results of the audit, conducted by the Bank of Montreal, were expected.

    “Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Inc today delivered its March 31, 2009 financial statements to its lender group with an unqualified audit opinion along with a certification that MGM is in full compliance with all of its debt covenants,” the company said in a statement.

    The studio, which is expected to soon release Fame and Hot Tub Time Machine, faces a payment of $250 million in April 2010 on its revolving credit, with the $3.7 billion of term debt due in June 2012.

    The debt largely stems from the acquisition of MGM by an investor group in 2004. MGM is owned by a consortium of companies, including private equity firms TPG Capital LP and Providence Equity Partners, Sony Corp and Comcast Corp, which paid about $5 billion in debt and equity to buy the then-publicly traded studio from its majority owner, billionaire Kirk Kerkorian.

    Keep turning to the CommanderBond.net main page—as well as our brand new Twitter feed—for all the latest James Bond news and coverage.