Hull hosts Steve McQueen film scenes in wartime setting
- Filming for the World War Two film Blitz took place in Hull city centre in February 2023.
- The film features a storyline about a boy and his mother during wartime, with locations transformed to reflect the 1940s.
- Blitz will premiere at the BFI London Film Festival on October 9, 2023, and will be available in cinemas and on Apple TV later in the year.
The first trailer for the film Blitz, directed by Sir Steve McQueen, showcases Hull's transformation into 1940s London, featuring scenes shot in February 2023. The film centers on a nine-year-old boy named George, portrayed by Elliott Heffernan, and his mother Rita, played by Saoirse Ronan, as they navigate the challenges of wartime. Hull's Old Town and Paragon railway station were among the locations used, enhanced with vintage red buses and period street furniture to create an authentic atmosphere. Hull has gained recognition as a filming location, earning the nickname "Hullywood" due to its involvement in various productions, including The Crown and Enola Holmes 2. The use of local extras and actors from East Yorkshire further emphasizes the community's engagement in the film industry. This trend highlights Hull's growing reputation as a desirable location for filmmakers. Blitz is set to premiere at the BFI London Film Festival on October 9, 2023, before its theatrical release on November 1, 2023. Following its cinema run, the film will be available for streaming on Apple TV starting November 22, 2023. The anticipation surrounding the film is heightened by McQueen's previous successes, including the Academy Award-winning 12 Years a Slave. The film not only tells a poignant story of a mother and son during World War II but also showcases Hull's historical significance and its ability to adapt to the needs of modern filmmaking. This project reflects the city's potential to attract future productions, further solidifying its place in the film industry.