Liverpool is often dubbed the ‘Hollywood of the North,’ and for good reason. Our city offers a wealth of stunning locations for creating spectacular on-screen moments. Indeed, Merseyside has given the world numerous cinematic hits throughout the 20th and early 21st centuries, some of which have earned prestigious awards. It’s no wonder that famous figures have called Liverpool a “pool of life” and “the centre of the human universe.” So, join us at liverpool-trend.com as we take a brief look at some of the best films connected to the city.
The Batman (2022)
We’ve previously mentioned the filming of “The Batman,” starring Robert Pattinson, here. It’s a truly unique blockbuster, especially considering how perfectly Liverpool served as the backdrop for Gotham City. In 2020, filming took place across the city and could hardly go unnoticed, particularly when residents spotted the actor in the famous superhero costume.
Sherlock Holmes (2009)
Blockbuster, detective thriller, action film – these all aptly describe “Sherlock Holmes,” starring Robert Downey Jr. and Jude Law, which was filmed at Stanley Dock. The docks were used to create a scene set in London’s warehouses, where the tangled plot kicks off. After saving Sherlock’s love interest from a grim fate, Watson and Holmes pursue Lord Henry Blackwood, who has set a devious explosive trap.
Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)
This film is a must-see for Marvel Comics fans, and once again, Liverpool’s Stanley Dock takes centre stage. In “Captain America: The First Avenger,” Steve Rogers is transformed into the super-soldier we all recognise after being exposed to “Vita-Rays.” In his first action sequence, Steve Rogers chases a Hydra agent through Stanley Dock. Over 500 actors descended on the city, transforming Liverpool’s docks into 1940s New York.
Kelly + Victor (2012)
This story centres on two artworks in the Walker Art Gallery: Giovanni Segantini’s 1891 painting “The Punishment of Lust” and Alfred Gilbert’s 1908 statue “Mors Janua Vitae.” Kelly and Victor go on their first proper date after meeting in a nightclub and spending a passionate night together. But problems soon arise when Victor fails to understand Kelly’s cues regarding their intimacy.
The film has a strict age rating.
Nowhere Boy (2009)
As a port, Liverpool was exposed to overseas influences faster than other British cities, and rock and roll quickly made its way across the Atlantic. This film tells the story of a young John Lennon (find other films about The Beatles and its members here) and his relationships with his family. While the screenplay deviates significantly from the truth, it accurately captures the atmosphere of 1950s Liverpool.
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 (2010)
Liverpool is featured in a stunning scene filmed in the Queensway Tunnel. In the sequence, Harry and Hagrid race through the tunnel, narrowly avoiding oncoming buses and cars. The shoot was kept secret and conducted at night.
Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (2016)
This is another instance where Liverpool stood in for New York, this time from the 1920s. Key locations featured include St George’s Hall and the iconic Cunard Building.
Distant Voices, Still Lives (1988)
Director Terence Davies, known for his short films, crafts a deeply personal version of Liverpool in this work, a theme he would revisit throughout his career. The plot of “Distant Voices, Still Lives” pieces together fragments of a working-class family’s life. Davies adheres to a realist approach, allowing for a truthful portrayal of brutal and sorrowful moments.
Letter to Brezhnev (1985)
The plot of “Letter to Brezhnev” follows two girls from Kirkby who meet Soviet sailors and try to reconnect with them. Filmed in Liverpool in just three weeks, this story, filled with humour and romance, showcases the city’s defiant spirit and perfectly captures the prevailing mood of the time.
Educating Rita (1983)
The story follows Rita, a hairdresser who decides to better her life by enrolling in an Open University literature course, where her tutor is the alcoholic professor, Frank. Although filmed in Dublin, the story retains its strong Liverpool influence, as the main character hails from the city. The film was nominated for an Oscar and won a Golden Globe and a BAFTA, highlighting Liverpool’s cultural contribution to the world of cinema.
Gumshoe (1971)
The plot follows Albert Finney as a bingo caller and part-time stand-up comedian who dreams of becoming a detective like his hero, Sam Spade. He unexpectedly finds himself embroiled in an adventure after placing an ad in the newspaper on his birthday. Filmed in Liverpool, the movie showcases many locations that have since disappeared or changed, evoking a nostalgia for a city whose 1960s boom proved to be illusory.
Creed (2015)
This boxing film features Liverpool boxer Tony Bellew, who plays Ricky Conlan in the first instalment. The climactic fight scene, along with much of the film, was shot at Everton FC’s stadium, Goodison Park.
Alfie (2004)
In 2004, a modern remake of Michael Caine’s 1966 classic hit the cinemas. In this version, two scenes where the protagonist contemplates changing his lifestyle were filmed in Liverpool. The locations used were Formby beach and a flower shop on Brunswick Street.
Florence Foster Jenkins (2016)
This touching film about the power of self-belief portrays the true story of a woman who loved to sing, despite her lack of talent. Liverpool was used as a primary filming location, with nearly all the scenes set in New York being shot in the city centre, particularly on Water Street.
Fast & Furious 6 (2013)
The films in this high-octane franchise have been shot all over the world, including America, Japan, and Abu Dhabi, and the sixth instalment made a stop in Liverpool. A chase scene involving veteran Vin Diesel, supposedly taking place in London, was actually filmed in Liverpool’s Queensway Tunnel.
Yentl (1983)
“Yentl” is the remarkable story of a Jewish woman with a passion for education. The protagonist disguises herself as a man to gain access to religious studies. In the film’s finale, she leaves Europe, sailing on a vessel to the USA. In reality, the ‘Atlantic Steamer’ was an Isle of Man ferry on the River Mersey.
The Reckoning (1969)
The film follows Michael, played by Nicol Williamson, who returns to the north to avenge his father’s death while also plotting a coup at his London-based tech company. He seeks out the culprits whom the police are unwilling to pursue, all while attempting to seduce his married secretary, Rachel Roberts. The film uses locations on both sides of the River Mersey.
The Golden Vision (1968)
This classic football film blends the life story of Scottish forward Alex Young with the devotion of Everton fans. During a period when the club was embroiled in a betting scandal, these supporters remained loyal, even following the team to away matches.
Violent Playground (1958)
The portrayal of juvenile delinquency in this social problem film by director Basil Dearden is unflinching. Using Liverpool as its setting, the film explores the controversial thesis that crime is born from poverty.
Penny Paradise (1938)
The plot centres on a party thrown by tugboat captain Edmund Gwenn in his local pub after a big win on the football pools. However, his celebrations are cut short by some bad news. This classic drama skilfully captures the sense of community in the docklands.
