Tiff and Designing 007 in conjunction with EON Productions have collaborated to bring one of the most unique and exciting exhibition of James Bond Movie memorabilia to Toronto, Canada. What is the secret behind one of the longest franchises in movie history; the mystique and time defying originality of the world of espionage captured in the original Ian Fleming novels?  Ian Fleming himself  was mystified. Albert R. Broccoli and Harry Saltzman immediately saw the intrigue of the “sauve, secret agent” James Bond 007  created by Fleming. They managed to find the perfect actor, Sean Connery, who would immortalize 007 as the MI6 Intelligence officer. James Bond 007 was based on Fleming’s own wartime intelligence experiences and connections with espionage operations, and his extensive knowledge of the world from  his own privileged background and  travel.

We stepped behind the scenes to speak with Jesse Wente, Head of Film Programmes TIFF for an intimate look at the exhibit. The 007 mystique was amplified by the introduction of new actors in the role of Bond over the decades: Sean Connery, George Lazenby, Roger Moore, Timothy Dalton, Pearce Brosnan and now Daniel Craig. The entire 007 world is constantly updated creating an excitement we can’t seem to resist.

Photo courtesy of TIFF

Explore for yourself the mystery of James Bond’s world. Original suits worn in the first Bond movie, Dr. No (1962) are here. So are the cars, gadgets, jewelry and dresses worn by the original Bond girls. These are elements of the Bond saga that have proved invincible and enduring over the decades. Today we have half a century of carefully selected items that have created one of the most enduring spy stories in history.

Photo courtesy of TIFF

“A unique exhibition exploring the design and style of the world’s most iconic movie brand.”

Photo courtesy of TIFF

TIFF is also running a special on-screen journey through 50 years of the James Bond saga “Shaken Not Stirred: Bond On Screen” featuring the James Bond films from ‘Dr. No’, 1962 to ‘Quantum of Solace’ 2008. The films will be screened at the Tiff Bell Lightbox from Oct. 2012 to Jan. 20^th, 2013.

-Moira Romano

Also check the special myETVmedia series including vignettes from the famous Bond films: