Lois Maxwell, Rest in Peace

I just got back after a three-day road trip to discover the sad news of Lois Maxwell’s death. Maxwell, of course, was the original Miss Moneypenny, and was featured in that role in fourteen James Bond films, playing opposite three different Bonds (Connery, Lazenby, and Moore).

She was a charming, warm presence on-screen, and a lovely, stable balance to Bond’s personality. She kind of gave him a home to return to.

Off screen, she was engaging and informative, and contributed to numerous interviews and documentaries. She was forthcoming with John Cork for his many behind-the-scenes features and I was always charmed by her.

She will be greatly missed.

Michael Lamont, RIP

Via Commander Bond, I learn this morning of the untimely death of art director Michael Lamont at the age of 59.

007 Nederland reports the very sad news that Michael Lamont, James Bond art director and brother of Peter Lamont, passed away in July, aged 59.
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Michael Lamont joined the 007 production crew for 1981’s For Your Eyes Only as an additional art director, and worked in the art department on every James Bond film since, with the exception of Tomorrow Never Dies. Most recently, Michael Lamont worked in the model unit for three of Pierce Brosnan’s 007 films and Casino Royale. In addition to his considerable contribution to the world of 007, Lamont boasted a very impressive resumé, including work on The Empire Strikes Back, Return Of The Jedi, Raiders Of The Lost Ark, Aliens, Harry Potter And The Philosopher’s Stone and Batman Begins.
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Michael Lamont was also part of the Casino Royale production team that won the Excellence in Production Design Award at the 2007 Art Directors Guild awards.