Ministers Visit Set Of Latest Hollywood Production In NI

First Minister Michelle O'Neill, deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly, and Economy Minister Caoimhe Archibald have visited the set of the major film production, 'The Death of Robin Hood', currently filming at Belfast Harbour Studios.

The ministers hailed the securing of the production, which stars Hollywood actors Hugh Jackman and Jodie Comer, as a significant endorsement of Northern Ireland's burgeoning screen industry. The film is receiving support from Northern Ireland Screen and is utilising a variety of locations across the region, including Silent Valley, Glenarm, Murlough Bay, and Belfast Harbour Studios. Post-production work for the movie will be carried out at Yellowmoon in Holywood, County Down.

First Minister Michelle O'Neill emphasised the importance of the sector: "Our film and TV industry is booming and is a vital part of our creative economy. The north has established itself as a leading location for filming and we continue to attract major movies and television series thanks to our highly skilled people and fantastic landscapes."

She added that securing 'The Death of Robin Hood' provided a valuable opportunity to further enhance the profile of Northern Ireland's screen industry. "This project will employ a large number of local crew on a large-scale project, ensuring skills are utilised and ready for the next big production," Ms O'Neill said.

Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly echoed this sentiment, highlighting the creative industries' impact. "From shaping modern culture to driving economic prosperity, the creative industries right here in Northern Ireland remain an unrivalled force of creativity and influence over today's world," she commented.

Ms Little-Pengelly said she was pleased to witness the work of the local screen industry firsthand during her visit to the set. "Productions such as this provide highly skilled job opportunities and in turn will help attract more big budget films and TV productions," she noted, commending all involved and wishing the film success upon its release. Economy Minister Caoimhe Archibald highlighted the role of Northern Ireland Screen in attracting such productions. "It was a great privilege to see how our screen industry, with the support of NI Screen, is helping attract exciting productions like this to the north," she said.

Ms Archibald also acknowledged the region's appeal as a filming location. "We are recognised globally as a highly desirable filming location, not only for our diverse, beautiful and accessible locations, but also because of the outstanding skills base that has been built here. I am keen to develop this further, with the screen industries having been identified as one of the seven priority sectors for my Department."

Producer Aaron Ryder, speaking on behalf of the filmmaking team, praised Northern Ireland as a filming location. "We were brought to Northern Ireland by Northern Ireland Screen and Lime Tree films to scout the areas. From the minute we set foot here it was rather clear we were going to be shooting the film here," he said. "From the local cast and crew to the spectacular locations, Northern Ireland has exceeded all of our expectations. We all feel very lucky to be here and are honoured to be working with so many talented people."

Richard Williams, Chief Executive of Northern Ireland Screen, welcomed the production. "Northern Ireland Screen is delighted to welcome The Death of Robin Hood to our shores. The production was drawn to Northern Ireland by our breathtaking cinematic locations, our world-class crew, exceptional facilities and financial incentives," he explained.

Mr Williams also acknowledged the support from the Executive. "The backing of the First Minister, Deputy First Minister, and Economy Minister underscores the Executive's strong commitment to the continued growth of our screen industry.

We are proud to see Northern Ireland once again play a leading role in international filmmaking. We look forward to seeing this production come to life, showcasing our talent on the global stage and further cementing our reputation as a leading centre for film and television production."