Upcoming Harry Potter prequel to be filmed in Liverpool

Liverpool is continuing to establish a strong position for itself in the global film industry with the announcement that scenes from Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, the next big-screen installment in the Harry Potter universe, will be shot in the city.

The cast and crew behind Fantastic Beasts, a new straight-to-screen wizarding adventure written by children’s author by J. K. Rowling and starring Oscar winner Eddie Redmayne, will soon arrive in Liverpool, which has been announced by Warner Bros. Pictures as the only non-studio location to be used.

A 530-strong team comprising Hollywood stars, extras and crew members will make Liverpool their temporary home during the filming, giving a further boost to the city’s economy.

Cllr Wendy Simon, the assistant mayor and cabinet member for the Liverpool Film Office, said: “We are absolutely delighted that this huge production is taking place in Liverpool.

“We were one of many locations the production team were looking at, and for us to come out on top is a testament to the expertise, experience and enthusiasm of our Film Office, packaged with the stunning venues we have to offer.”

She continued: “We are no stranger to big movies being filmed on the city streets, but without a doubt, J.K. Rowling’s new adventure will cause a real buzz and re-emphasises Liverpool’s reputation as one of the most filmed cities outside of London.

“I’m sure we’ll give the cast and crew the usual warm Liverpool welcome and give them an unforgettable experience during their time here.”

Due for release at the end of next year, Fantastic Beasts is being directed by David Yates, who took the helm of the last four films in the Harry Potter franchise.

Producer David Heyman, who worked on all eight of the Potter movies, commented: “We are thrilled to be bringing Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them to Liverpool, a city which has such fond memories for me.

“My mother is from Liverpool and, as a child, we would often visit family there. The architecture in this beautiful city works perfectly for our film, set in 1920s New York, and I know we will receive a very warm welcome.”

The manager of the Liverpool Film Office, Lynn Saunders, explained that securing the filming in the city was a “very lengthy process”, but said she was confident Liverpool could offer up “amazing” locations to feature in the film.

She said: “We are so pleased to be able to facilitate this movie, and coming just a couple of weeks after we announced the news of a new TV and Film studio coming to Liverpool - it really does go to show we are a city in demand.

“This has been a hugely busy year for us so far, and as soon as one project finishes, another one is setting up.

“We’re seeing a real trend in productions returning to the city time and time again, and increasing the length of their stay each time as they have really positive experiences when working here.”

Lynn added: “The director, David Yates is an example of this, having filmed Harry Potter & the Deathly Hallows and his debut feature ‘The Tichborne Claimant’ in Liverpool previously – we’re delighted to welcome him and the team back.”