Despite what you might believe from the British newspapers, working as an Ambassador isn’t always gin and tonic on the veranda and Ferrero Rocher chocolates. But occasionally the opportunity to dress up and enjoy the glamour comes along. And last night was one of those occasions when I attended the Netherlands Premiere of the new James Bond film, Skyfall, at the Tuschinsky theatre in Amsterdam.
One of the stars of the film, Berenice Marlohe, attended and I had the pleasure of greeting her at the entrance of the theatre, then watching the film.
I can strongly recommend it – rather different from recent Bond films, with a storyline emphasising the family background of 007, with fewer gadgets (but the usual stunning opening sequence). Talking to the many prominent Dutch guests at the after party (complete with fish and chips and Melton Mowbray pork pies!), it’s clear that the British film industry still provides a fantastic showcase for the UK.
With plenty of the best of British on show (including the cars of course) and some stunning scenery of Scotland, the film is a great reminder of what the UK has to offer. And it provides a nice link to the amazing 2012 London Games following Bond’s appearance with HM The Queen in the film shown at the Olympics opening ceremony!
So here’s to another 50 years of Bond – the most recognisable of Her Majesty’s civil servants!