Film crews have descended on Birkenhead, transforming several well-known Wirral landmarks into a backdrop for the upcoming DC Universe movie, 'Clayface'. Production activity was prominent at Birkenhead Town Hall this week, with filming also taking place across the borough, bringing a major Hollywood production to the region.
The movie, which focuses on the classic shapeshifting Batman villain, is the third installment in the new DC Universe. Streets in Birkenhead, Seacombe, and New Brighton have been utilized by the production, signaling another significant filming project for the Liverpool City Region.
Key Takeaways
- Major filming for the DC Universe movie 'Clayface' is currently underway in Wirral.
- Birkenhead Town Hall is a central filming location, with crews and extras on site.
- Other locations include the old Birkenhead tunnel entrance, Seacombe Ferry Terminal, and parts of New Brighton.
- 'Clayface' is the third film in the expanding DC Universe, centered on a notable Batman antagonist.
Birkenhead Town Hall Takes Center Stage
Birkenhead's historic Town Hall has become a primary location for the 'Clayface' production. On Monday, September 15th, the area surrounding the Victorian-era building was bustling with film crews, equipment, and production vehicles. The building's grand architecture is being used as a key set piece for the superhero film.
Eyewitnesses reported seeing numerous production staff, extras in costume, and what appeared to be a stunt performer near the town hall. Filming is expected to continue at the location, which has been temporarily closed off to accommodate the large-scale production needs. This marks another instance of the Grade II* listed building being chosen for its cinematic appeal.
A Popular Filming Destination
The Liverpool City Region, including Wirral, has become a favored location for major film and television productions, often dubbed the 'Hollywood of the North'. Its diverse architecture allows it to stand in for cities like London, New York, and Moscow. Recent productions have included 'The Batman', 'Peaky Blinders', and various Marvel series, managed by the Liverpool Film Office.
Wirral Landmarks Feature Prominently
The production of 'Clayface' is not limited to a single location. Film crews have been spotted across the Wirral peninsula, utilizing a variety of settings to build the world of the film. These locations provide a diverse range of backdrops for the action-packed DC story.
Key Filming Locations Across the Borough
In addition to the town hall, several other key sites have been confirmed as filming locations:
- Rendel Street Tunnel Entrance: The old entrance to the Birkenhead tunnel has been used, suggesting scenes requiring a gritty, urban environment.
- Seacombe Ferry Terminal: The riverside location offers a distinct setting, potentially for scenes involving water or transport.
- New Brighton: Last week, filming took place on Tollemache Street and outside the Adventureland amusement park on Marine Promenade, indicating varied settings from residential streets to public attractions.
The use of multiple locations highlights the logistical scale of the project and its temporary impact on local areas. Residents have observed road closures and increased activity as the crew moves between sets.
Understanding the 'Clayface' Project
'Clayface' is a significant entry in the newly rebooted DC Universe, a series of interconnected films and television shows. The film is set to explore the origins and story of a classic, yet complex, villain from Batman's rogues' gallery.
The project is being directed by James Watkins, known for his work on thrillers and horror films. The screenplay is penned by a notable team consisting of Mike Flanagan, celebrated for his work in the horror genre, and Hossein Amini. This creative team suggests the film may adopt a darker, more character-driven tone.
Who is Clayface?
In DC Comics, Clayface is a legacy name used by several characters, but the most famous is Basil Karlo. He is typically depicted as an actor who gains shapeshifting abilities, allowing him to alter his appearance and body into any form he can imagine. This power makes him a formidable and unpredictable foe for Batman.
Economic and Cultural Impact on the Region
The arrival of a major DC production brings more than just excitement; it provides a tangible economic boost to the local area. Such projects hire local crew, utilize local services like catering and accommodation, and increase footfall in the featured areas.
"Attracting high-profile productions like 'Clayface' reinforces the Liverpool City Region's status as a world-class filming hub. It generates investment, creates jobs, and showcases our unique locations to a global audience."
Furthermore, the 'film tourism' effect can be significant. After a movie is released, fans often travel to see the real-life locations where their favorite scenes were shot. The visibility of landmarks like Birkenhead Town Hall on a global stage can enhance the area's cultural profile and attract visitors for years to come.
As filming continues, residents can expect to see more of Hollywood's magic at work on their doorsteps. The production of 'Clayface' not only adds another impressive credit to the region's portfolio but also allows local landmarks to play a part in a major cinematic universe.