The troubled city filmmakers love
The vast Titanic Studios in the city’s Titanic quarter has been putting the city on the cinematic map for almost a decade, and this year hosted leading productions such as Dungeons and Dragons (starring Hugh Grant and Bridgerton duke Regé-Jean Page). And who could forget Game of Thrones? One of the most successful TV series of all time, it was filmed in Belfast and across Northern Ireland, making great use of the region’s rugged coastlines, historic castles and breathtaking scenery. For millions of fans, Northern Ireland and Belfast will forever be “Game of Thrones territory”.
In fact, there’s a sense of optimism around creativity in the city – and a sense of moving forward into a new era of exciting storytelling by new voices and fresh talent. Films that have no reference to past conflicts include Nowhere Special, a 2020 drama, inspired by a true story, and starring James Norton as a single father given months to live who searches for a family to care for his son. And the highly rated debut feature by Stacey Gregg, Here Before, a bold psychological thriller starring Andrea Riseborough. Then there is Derry Girls, which has the Troubles as a backdrop but is a riotous, irreverent and joyful comedy set in the mid 90s, and based on writer Lisa McGee’s schooldays. Shot in Belfast as well as the titular city, it is Channel 4’s most successful sit-com since Father Ted.
“Derry Girls shows off our wicked sense of humour which can get lost in dark dramas,” says Martin. “It’s also a timely reminder of how precious the peace process is, and how we should never forget this.” That peace process, he believes, is “built on firm foundations – and one of those is the film industry, which has created jobs and given us all hope”. He adds: “Not all stories of the Troubles have been told, we must continue to explore, to tell our truths and let ourselves heal on the big screen. That’s part of the process and the journey we’re on.”
Martin believes Branagh’s film has captured the heart and humanity of the city, and an incredible energy, past and present. “I think it’s incredibly emotional and significant he’s told the story of his own childhood, and the moment when he leaves the city – because that story has not been told. He made the film for his hometown. And if he wins an Oscar, you can be sure the whole city will be toasting him and celebrating.”
Belfast is released on 12 November in the US, and 25 February in the UK.
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