SOUTH Down is in the limelight once again as top screen and stage actress Judi Dench, who has played the MI6 spymaster ‘M’ seven times in James Bond films, is filming her latest movie in Rostrevor. Skyfall, her most recent Bond film, is currently breaking box office records.
Chris Hazzard MLA said that South Down is making a name for itself as a film location on hearing the news. He added: “Having someone as famous as Dame Judi Dench film in South Down will undoubtedly add to the growing reputation as a location to make films.
“Like all industries, people within the film world talk to each other and I am sure given the success of Game of Thrones and The Shore that people involved in those productions would have recommended South Down as a great location.
“South Down has a diverse range of scenery within a relatively small area from mountains to beaches, from forests to meadows and from ancient castles to modern towns so it is ideal for most type of filming.”
Newry and Mourne Councillor Mick Murphy added: “The film industry gives the local economy a boost when it arrives in the area as they bring the cast and production crews who support local shops, restaurants and bars. There is also sometimes the added bonus for paid extras usually taken up by the local population so every production is more than welcome.
“What is also wonderful in the fact that, when it eventually appears on the screen, South Down can be seen by millions, many of whom will hopefully also decide to come and visit us.”
