The great and the good from the world of James Bond gathered last night at the Royal Albert Hall in London, England, for the global premiere of the 24th adventure SPECTRE.
Cast, crew and special guests walked the red carpet and many were interviewed for the live YouTube stream and the big screen in front of the Royal Albert Hall. Selected members of the cast and crew were then interviewed by David Walliams on a special stage (erected just the day before) between the Aston Martin and Jaguar cars from the film.
When all of the audience was seated, the Royal party walked the red carpet and were introduced to the representatives of the charities benefitting from the premiere and the cast and crew. After the fanfare and abbreviated version of the national anthem, producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson welcomed everyone. Wilson noted that London had hosted a charity premiere from a new James Bond film since 'Goldfinger', and tonight's event had raised over £755,000 for the three charities.
Sam Mendes then came on stage to personally introduce twelve members of the cast. Predictably, Daniel Craig came on last to a rousing round of appluase and cheers form the audience. Mendes introduced Craig as his friend and collaborator, and motioned for the 007 star to take a bow.
Finally, Mendes pointed out that for the very first time, a new Bond film would be opening that same night around the UK with screenings starting 15 minutes later.