Blog

June 25, 2024

By Josh Coupland

As England keeps solidifying its status as a haven for filmmakers, it’s critical to have a forward-looking view of the film and television industries, analysing recent box office achievements in 2023 and 2024 and projecting which popular location trends might be in high demand. Let’s examine these patterns and predict how the film industry could look over the next 12 months.

Futuristic Frontiers

The vast and inventive settings of fantasy and science fiction have always enthralled viewers. Recently, films such as Dune have elevated the standard for visual storytelling, emphasising the importance of distinctive and dramatic surroundings. Filmmakers can concentrate on natural wonders for the upcoming year—imagine breathtaking beaches and craggy cliffs. Cornwall’s coastline, with its unearthly pleasures, is an example of the kind of setting where these fantastical universes come to life.

Jurassic Coast MN Studios/Shutterstock
Jurassic Coast MN Studios/Shutterstock

Metropolitan Marvels

Urban environments, which combine modernism and historical nuance, are essential to action and superhero films. The triumph of films such as The Batman underscores this pattern. Cities with a blend of contemporary and traditional architectural design will be in demand, particularly with the superhero genre still in its boom.

© Gordon Bell/Shutterstock

Timeless Treasures

Period dramas are always relevant because of their compelling narratives set against actual historical occurrences. Historic villages and period buildings have appeared in films like ‘Emma’. Famous homes and towns, like Highclere Castle, a famous Downton Abbey location, provide the grandeur and realism needed for the historical dramas. The renowned Netflix show Bridgerton continues to film in these picturesque locales, contributing to their enduring allure that has captivated millions around the world.

Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story. (L to R) India Amarteifio as Young Queen Charlotte, Corey Mylchreest as Young King George in episode 103 of Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story. Cr. Liam Daniel/Netflix © 2023

Sinister Settings

In horror films, location plays a crucial role in creating a spooky and thrilling atmosphere. Hit films like A Quiet Place Part II and Nope have demonstrated how effective creepy and isolated locations can be. Secluded rural regions and decaying historic homes may become well-known for causing cinema-goers to leap out of their seats in the upcoming months. The vast, untamed landscapes of Dartmoor are ideal for those eerie stories.

© Visit Dartmoor

Romantic Retreats

Beautiful scenery that enhances the romantic atmosphere of the story is a great asset to romantic comedies. Films like Last Christmas have effectively shown enthralling villages and picturesque landscapes to get hearts fluttering, and we anticipate these will be in great demand for the next 12 months. The Cotswolds, with their undulating hills and charming villages, remain a favourite for perfectly embodying romanticism.

© Phil Tinkler/Shutterstock

Daring Destinations

Diverse and difficult landscapes are necessary for adventure films to hold viewers’ attention. Widely recognised films such as Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One have brought attention to the importance of diverse settings. The coming year will see a continuous search for extravagant natural settings that provide amazing backdrops for adventures, such as mountains, lakes, and woods. The Lake District sticks out as the perfect place because of its gorgeous lakes and mountains. 

Esai Morales and Tom Cruise in Mission: Impossible Dead Reckoning Part One from © Paramount Pictures and Skydance.

By 2025, it’s obvious that England’s many filming sites will still be major players in the world of screen. From the captivating charm of historic estates to the sprawling energy of urban landscapes, filmmakers can find a wealth of locations in England to bring any story to life. Watch closely over the next 12 months to find out where the next big film or television show might be set, and observe how England’s landscapes continue to be at the forefront of your screen.