insideSUSSEX Magazine Issue 15 - May 2016 | Page 20

ARTS+ENTERTAINMENT FILMED IN SUSSEX Sussex is a multi-faceted county, with many locations that film and television makers love. Whether it’s a big Hollywood blockbuster, or a home-grown television programme, Sussex and all of its wonderful towns and villages, as well as its beautiful countryside and coast, can play host to them all. We spoke to the West Sussex Film Office and asked producer, James Chapman, about what films have been made here, and just why Sussex is such a great film location. Hi James, what is it that makes Sussex so popular with filmmakers? There has been no shortage of feature films and TV shows choosing to film in Sussex. The county boasts an impressive portfolio. Robin Hood, Harry Potter, James Bond, Mary, Queen of Scots – all these characters have made film appearances in Sussex. It's often easy to overlook what is on your very own doorstep yet, location wise, the county is home to many iconic places and packs a mighty punch in terms of the sheer diversity of locations and number of industry professionals located within it. Where do you think are some fantastic, but as yet undiscovered locations? Scratch a bit further and filmmakers will discover some real hidden gems; perhaps even some unheard of surprises. Take, for example, the two spooky abandoned railway tunnels in Singleton and Cocking - both creepy locations, which look like they could be straight out of the movie set of Sussex's next horror feature film. Then there are the amazing redwood trees across the county, which could be a great location for Stars Wars and mistaken for Redwood National Park in California. Or, perhaps a period drama production team might be interested in the Church of St. Andrew, known as 'The Shepherd's Church', which is tucked away in Didling in the South Downs. With the church having no electricity and dimly lit by candles, upon entering you immediately step back in time and get a sense of its uniqueness and isolation. Equally atmospheric, a budding wildlife filmmaker could set their next documentary film in Fittleworth's abandoned church ruin, wh ich is slowly being reclaimed by nature, surrounded by wild forest and brimming with birdlife. It’s a land defined by both its distinctive architecture, and by landscapes with not a building in sight. From quintessential thatched cottages, to opulent stately homes, working farms, fully functioning windmills, old Roman palaces, and even older castles. Rolling hills and chalk meadows lead to dramatic coastlines, historic harbours and breathtaking beaches too. Sussex is undoubtedly a world-class filming location, and it’s making waves in the film industry with lots to shout about. 20