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.
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