Major productions filming in Liverpool are not only putting the city in the spotlight – they’re helping local people get their break in to the industry.
Thanks to a Liverpool Film Office training programme, more than 20 people have worked on global projects including Taylor Swift’s “I Can See You (Taylor’s Version)” music video, popular series Outlander, prime time ITV drama Maternal and the hotly anticipated DISNEY+ show Beaumont.
As a result of the training initiative, the programme graduates, many who are long-term unemployed, had roles as location marshals on these productions.
Championing equality, diversity and inclusion in the industry, the Liverpool Film Office team facilitates training sessions to hone skills through workshops and courses, and then secures paid work placements with productions filming in Liverpool City Region.
The Taylor Swift music video shoot for “I Can See You (Taylor’s Version) (From The Vault)” took over part of the Cunard building back in April and also featured other iconic city buildings.
Not only did the production hire new entrants and utilise local landmarks, but it also took on six new entrants, of local crew and services, bringing significant inward investment to the city.
Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Culture, Councillor Harry Doyle said: “For Taylor Swift to choose Liverpool, a UNESCO, music city, as the location to film I Can See You is monumental and once again puts the city on the international screen.
“This project, like many others that come through the Film Office, championed all that we have to offer for film and TV in the region and provided fantastic opportunities to local people and companies.
“Thanks to the world-class training, local people have been able to gain invaluable experience, working on high end productions and now have the skills to go on and work on film and TV projects in the future.
“With our stunning locations it’s easy to see why Taylor Swift chose Liverpool as the location to create her latest music video, in which she has written, directed and starred – the city is equally proud to host.
“We cannot wait to welcome Taylor and her team back here next year for her three tour dates at Anfield!”
Head of Liverpool Film Office Lynn Saunders said: “In the last year, the team have facilitated a huge number of productions to the Liverpool City Region ranging from high-end TV productions to Hollywood blockbusters but this really was a coup to get a showstopping music video like Taylor’s here.
“It is also great to see three other huge stars make cameos in the video and it is testament to the work and dedication of the Film Office to continue to bring big names and projects to the city.
“The success of film and TV production in the Liverpool City Region is generating more opportunities, especially for local trainees, to get into the industry without having to relocate which has unfortunately often been the case.
“There is no doubt that the presence of production also massively impacts the local economy, brings jobs for local people and inspires more people to join the industry.
“There’s no wonder why we’re the second most filmed city outside of London!”
Where the Taylor Swift video was filmed:
- Cunard Building
- Water Street
- Regent Road
- St George’s Hall
- Former Natwest Bank, Castle Street
For more information about Liverpool Film Office, head to its official website.