Map of Movies Made in Wales Could Boost Tourism
The map, pinpointing 30 locations, has been commissioned by Tourism Partnership North Wales who are confident the idea has massive potential. Events Executive Carole Startin estimates the map should generate an extra £1 million in income from visitors to North Wales. That means that Tourism Partnership should see a 50 to one return on their £20,000 investment.
EMPIRE GIVEAWAY
Around 60,000 copies of the map, she said, are going to be distributed via the North West and Midlands editions of the popular movie magazine, Empire, in its April edition. The campaign is also tying in with the North Wales Film and Television Trail which is being organised by the Wales Screen Commission.
The trail is the first of its kind in the UK with plaques being erected at the locations where films and well-known television programmes were made.
Ms Startin said: “North Wales has played host to a wonderfully eclectic mix of films and the Hollywood stardust has been sprinkled generously throughout the region. Given the stunning locations on offer here, it’s really no surprise that North Wales is something of a magnet to movie makers.
“While Snowdonia remains popular, it’s by no means the only choice as there are a huge variety of set opportunities throughout the region. In truth, we’ve had a bit of everything, from Hollywood classics to masterpieces of slapstick like Carry on up the Khyber and Holiday on the Buses.
At least two Bollywood spectaculars have been shot in the region and the enduring cult favourite, The Prisoner, is still attracting fans to Portmeirion which provided the backdrop for the surreal 1960s series.
“The locations include Talacre beach where scenes for Backbeat, a film about the Beatles, were shot and Anglesey where Demi Moore shot Halflight which is due to be released this year.
“Snowdonia has doubled for China at least twice in major but very different Hollywood productions. The first occasion was in the classic Ingrid Bergman movie, Inn of the Sixth Happiness, which was shot in 1958 at locations near Beddgelert. Then a few years ago the area provided the setting for the second Tomb Raider film starring Angelina Jolie.
“The map will be distributed outside Wales because our aim is to bring tourists into the country and the message to people is you’ve seen the film, now come and see the set. Because the map features such a wide variety of productions, there is something of interest for every audience and every age group.
“The potential is huge. We already know that Harry Potter has done wonders for tourism in Northumbria. Similarly, Last of the Summer Wine has been great for tourism in Holmfirth where it is filmed. Dr Who is now doing big things for Cardiff.”
“It’s a proven fact that celebrity culture can be good for the economy – it gives people an incentive to go to that area. That in turn has a knock on effect for all tourism businesses in that region – from accommodation providers to attractions and restaurants.
“The movie industry in the UK, including film tourism, is worth £3 billion annually and we are determined to grab as big a slice of the action as possible.”
A copy of the movie map can be ordered via North Wales Tourism on 08705 168767. More details can be found at http://www.moviemapnw.co.uk