Today, we take a step back into the world of cinema, nostalgia, and community spirit. We revisit a story close to our hearts and the heart of Kankakee—an insightful look into the life of a James Bond super-fan and collector extraordinaire, Doug Redenius. Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of the Ian Fleming Foundation and the incredible journey of preserving Bond memorabilia.
The Bond Fan Extraordinaire
In the spotlight is Doug Redenius, a native of St. Anne, Kankakee County, and founder of the Ian Fleming Foundation. Doug’s passion for James Bond began as a child and evolved into a lifelong pursuit that has brought the iconic British spy closer to Kankakee. From his first Bond movie in 1964 to becoming the custodian of countless priceless memorabilia, Doug’s story is one for the ages.
Access to Pinewood Studios: A Bond Fan’s Dream
Doug reminisces about the significant changes at Pinewood Studios over the years, noting, “In 1987, walking onto the Bond sets was easier, but now, under Disney’s ownership, access is extremely tight.” His experiences on set with Pierce Brosnan for “Goldeneye” and Daniel Craig for “Casino Royale” are the stuff of dreams for any Bond fan.
A Missed Connection with Sean Connery
Despite his vast network within the Bond universe, Doug shared a tender regret, “I never got to meet Sean Connery in person, even though I had several phone interactions with his son, Jason.” This anecdote, tinged with both excitement and wistfulness, highlights Doug’s genuine passion for the Bond legacy.
Formation of the Ian Fleming Foundation
Doug’s journey takes a fascinating turn as he recounts the formation of the Ian Fleming Foundation in 1991. “It all started with acquiring a submarine prop from the Bond movie,” he explains. This acquisition marked the beginning of a monumental task to restore and preserve pieces of Bond history, culminating in a collection of 41 iconic vehicles.
The Thrill of the Hunt
For Doug, the hunt and authentication of Bond items are thrilling. He fondly recalls, “I worked independently to find a Moonraker boat. The excitement of discovery and verification is incomparable.” Doug’s dedication has led to many successful restorations that have enthralled Bond fans worldwide.
Bond in Motion: The Prestigious Exhibit
One of the highlights of Doug’s work is the “Bond in Motion” exhibit at the Peterson Museum in Los Angeles. “The exhibit features original vehicles used in Bond films,” Doug notes, “and the partnership with Bond producers allows us to use official images, logos, and videos.” This exhibit is a testament to Doug’s passion and hard work, showcasing the incredible collection to the public until its closing in October.
A Lifelong Pursuit
Doug recounts his journey from a general collector to a focus on Bond memorabilia. Encouraged by his wife, his early purchases included a gold Aston Martin corgi car and figures, which cost him around $10-15. “In the early 1980s, collecting meant visiting flea markets and antique shows,” he reminisces, highlighting the evolution of his cherished hobby into a robust collection.
Celebrity Golf Tournaments for a Cause
Beyond collecting, Doug has also organized successful celebrity golf tournaments in England, with growing participation and fundraising for UNICEF. These events, coupled with his contributions to preserving Bond memorabilia, illustrate Doug’s commitment to making a positive impact.
Conclusion: An Enduring Legacy
As we revisit this remarkable journey, it’s clear that Doug Redenius’ dedication has brought a piece of Bond history to Kankakee County. His passion and relentless pursuit of preserving these iconic pieces ensure that the legacy of James Bond endures. Thank you for joining us on this nostalgic trip through the life of a true Bond aficionado.
