Successful Filming Year For Wales

Wales Economy Secretary, Ken Skates, has welcomed a successful 2016 of TV and film production in the country. The announcement follows confirmation that two more dramas selected Wales as a filming location.

Journey's End is a feature film based on the play by R. C. Sherriff. Set in the trenches in 1918, the story follows a small group of soldiers as they wait for an enemy offensive and anticipate their imminent death.

The production recently completed filming at Pinewood Studios in Cardiff and features stars including Sam Claflin, Paul Bettany, Toby Jones and Asa Butterfield. It was adapted by Simon Reade and directed by Saul Dibb.

The second production is Born to Kill and is currently underway in the city. A psychological thriller from producers World Productions for Channel 4, the drama stars Romola Garrai and Daniel Mays as the single parents of two out-of-control teens. It is the first commission for female writing duo Tracey Malone and Kate Ashfield.

Commenting on the productions, Mr Skates said: "Journey's End and Born to Kill join an ever growing list of prestigious productions, including Will, Da Vinci's Demons, The Bastard Executioner, Sherlock and The Collection, being filmed in Wales as a result of Welsh Government support. This is no coincidence as we are working hard to attract these sorts of productions to Wales and offering a comprehensive package of support including helping production companies to identify the right studios and locations and supporting them to find highly skilled, local crew.

"Attracting high end drama production to Wales brings many benefits. Not only does it generate direct and indirect economic benefits while filming is ongoing, it also brings interesting and fulfilling job opportunities and promotes Wales on an international stage, highlighting our stunning scenery, picturesque locations and wonderful landscapes Wales. And of course all of this helps bring tourists to Wales. It is clear that our proactive approach is paying dividends and that our reputation as a country that supports and facilitates drama production is continuing to grow. 2016 really has been a bumper year for TV production and we look forward to more exciting productions coming to Wales in 2017."

(JP)