An exceptional day at the Château de Guermantes and at Livry-Gargan's career with Catherine Serre.
On June 24, some 15 enthusiasts met for an unforgettable day in the footsteps of Moonraker, in places as emblematic as rarely accessible.
The castle of Guermantes – Guermantes (Seine and Marne)
The morning took place at castle of Guermantes, exceptionally open for the occasion. This private venue, usually reserved for seminars, was used as the setting for the film on 23 and 24 October 1978. Participants were able to discover the famous gallery where Bond meets Hugo Drax, guided by Émilie, the site manager. A booklet of 28 pages (if you are interested do not hesitate to Contact me), rich in documents, plans and photographs of the period, accompanied the visit.
The atmosphere of the film has been carefully recreated: the Prelude Opus 28 n°15 Chopin resonated in the room (thanks to François), while a plateau of cucumber sandwiches paid tribute to the famous lunch scene between Bond and Drax. Catherine Serre, the interpreter of Countess Labinsky, enthusiastically shared her memories of filming and lent herself in a good mood to the game of photos.
After a friendly and sunny lunch at Bussy-Guermantes Golf, participants attended an exclusive interview of Catherine Serre (The Countess Labinsky), one of the only two actresses to have shot both in the castle of Guermantes and in Livry-Gargan. In a relaxed atmosphere, she shared many anecdotes and filming memories. She said that returning to these places had revived her memory, remembering with emotion the huge production tents installed on the castle lawn in October 1978.
Career of Gypse Aubry- Pachot – Livry–Gargan (Seine and Marne)
After about 20 minutes of driving, participants had the privilege of accessing another legendary site: the career of Gypse Aubry-Pachot of Livry-Gargan, known to fans as the cave of Drax. This place, usually closed to the public, has exceptionally opened its doors for the occasion. Helmets in the colours of Drax Enterprise Corporation Screwed over John Barry's head and music in sound background, visitors explored this impressive 16-hectare underground cavity. The atmosphere, both unique and electrifying, made this world premiere a moment that many still dream of.
Bond events, there are many, and each has its own atmosphere. But some people score more than others, and « In the footsteps of Drax » is undoubtedly one of those.
I keep an unforgettable memory. First of all because it was an event of human size, where one could really take the time to talk with everyone, especially with Catherine Serre, presents that day, which was a real pleasure.
Then, because as a filming enthusiast, I had the chance to get to a place normally inaccessible, and for the very first time.
The entrance into the cave, accompanied by iconic music in sound background, gave me chills as we advanced. A moment forever engraved in my memory.
I am now ready for new adventures and events without hesitation.
Lucas B (June 2023)
While the exact locations of the shots remained difficult to identify, the atmosphere of the film was present. The day ended in a friendly atmosphere around a wine tasting and a signing session, concluding in beauty this rare and passionate immersion in the heart of the world of James Bond.
This blog shares my travel experiences, from unavoidable destinations to the most original and exclusive places. Each article is the result of careful work and a real time investment. If you use this information elsewhere or for your own adventures, consider citing your sources and thanking – that's what I do myself, and it's always fun.
Julien Abauzit (JaBoz)
I'll see you in Anet soon. For and with the club would be interesting to see what it would be possible to do together
Good day and see you soon