Blockbuster Film and TV Productions Surge Across the UK and Ireland
The United Kingdom and Ireland are experiencing an unprecedented boom in high-end film and television production, with 2026 shaping up to be a landmark year. A host of major international projects, from fantasy epics to historical dramas, are currently filming across the two nations, cementing their reputation as world-class production hubs. This influx of activity is not only creating thousands of jobs and boosting local economies but also showcasing the diverse and stunning landscapes of the British Isles to a global audience.
Background
For decades, the UK and Ireland have been attractive destinations for filmmakers, thanks to a combination of generous tax incentives, a highly skilled workforce, and a rich cultural heritage. The introduction of tax reliefs for film and high-end television has been a game-changer, encouraging major studios like Netflix, Amazon, and A24 to invest heavily in the region. This has led to the development of state-of-the-art studio facilities and a thriving ecosystem of production and post-production companies.
The success of productions like 'Game of Thrones', 'The Crown', and the 'Harry Potter' franchise has demonstrated the capacity of the UK and Ireland to handle large-scale, complex projects. The stunning scenery, from the rugged coastlines of Ireland to the historic streets of London and Edinburgh, has provided a versatile backdrop for a wide range of stories. This, combined with a deep pool of acting talent and world-renowned creative professionals, has created a perfect storm for a production boom.
The current wave of productions is notable for its scale and ambition. Major streaming services are locked in a fierce battle for content, and they are increasingly turning to the UK and Ireland to produce their flagship shows. This has resulted in a diverse slate of projects, from big-budget fantasy adaptations to intimate, character-driven dramas, all of which are contributing to a golden age for the British and Irish film and television industries.
Key Developments
Among the most anticipated projects currently in production is A24's adaptation of the hugely popular video game 'Elden Ring'. Directed by the visionary Alex Garland and starring Kit Connor and Ben Whishaw, the series is being filmed across England and Scotland. Meanwhile, Netflix is doubling down on its successful franchises, with season three of 'Wednesday', starring Jenna Ortega and Eva Green, filming in Ireland, and season five of the global phenomenon 'Bridgerton' in production in the UK.
Amazon is also making its mark with a new 'Tomb Raider' series, penned by the acclaimed Phoebe Waller-Bridge and starring Sophie Turner as the iconic Lara Croft. In a hugely ambitious undertaking, director Sam Mendes is helming a four-film cinematic event based on the lives of The Beatles, with filming taking place in London and Liverpool. The star-studded cast includes Harris Dickinson, Paul Mescal, and Barry Keoghan. Irish talent is also at the forefront, with Lenny Abrahamson directing 'Hillside Drive', starring Eve Hewson, in Ireland. On the film front, the much-loved BBC comedy 'Ghosts' is making the leap to the big screen with 'Ghosts: The Possession of Button House', set for release on 23 October. For a detailed list of ongoing productions, see the report from Screen Daily. More information on the Irish film industry can be found at Screen Ireland.
Why It Matters
The surge in production activity is a major economic boon for the UK and Ireland. It creates a wide range of jobs, from actors and directors to crew members, caterers, and drivers. The investment from major studios flows into local economies, supporting small businesses and stimulating growth. This is particularly important in a post-Brexit, post-pandemic world, as the creative industries are proving to be a resilient and dynamic sector of the economy.
Furthermore, these productions have a significant cultural impact. They showcase the talent and creativity of the British and Irish industries on a global stage, attracting further investment and tourism. The 'set-jetting' phenomenon, where fans visit the filming locations of their favourite shows, is a growing trend that brings economic benefits to even the most remote areas. The diverse range of stories being told also helps to shape the international perception of the UK and Ireland, highlighting their rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty.
Local Impact
The impact of these productions is felt at a local level across the UK and Ireland. In places like Belfast, which was a major hub for 'Game of Thrones', the legacy of the show continues to be felt in the form of tourism and a thriving film industry. The current slate of productions is spreading this benefit across the country, with filming taking place in cities like London, Liverpool, and Edinburgh, as well as in more rural locations in Scotland and Ireland. This provides a welcome boost to local economies and creates a sense of pride and excitement in the communities that host these major projects.
What's Next
The production boom shows no signs of slowing down. The demand for high-quality content from streaming services remains high, and the UK and Ireland are well-positioned to continue to meet this demand. The challenge will be to ensure that the industry can continue to grow sustainably, by investing in skills and infrastructure and ensuring that the benefits of the boom are shared widely. The coming months will see the release of many of the highly anticipated projects currently in production, which will further enhance the reputation of the UK and Ireland as global leaders in film and television.
