Birmingham in Movies – Top 6 Movies Filmed in Birmingham
When you think of Birmingham, what springs to mind? Perhaps it’s the twinkling lights of the German Christmas Market during the festive season, or maybe it’s the tantalising aroma of spices wafting through the Balti Triangle, promising some of the best curries in the world. Or maybe it’s the cheerful banter among friends and neighbours as they play their bingo in local halls.
But hold onto your popcorn – what if I told you that Birmingham is also a star-studded backdrop for some pretty iconic movies? That’s right, this UK city is not just about balti curries and the locals’ favourite bingo games; it’s a hidden gem in the cinematic universe!
Peaky Blinders (2013-2022)
No list about Birmingham on the big screen is complete without mentioning Peaky Blinders. This gritty, gripping series about a gangster family post-WWI is as Brummie as it gets – rich in local flavour! The show breathes life into various corners of the city, from the historic Black Country Living Museum to the picturesque Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery. Let’s not forget the Jewellery Quarter, which seems to sparkle a bit brighter in the series.
The King’s Speech (2010)
Next up is The King’s Speech, a film that scooped up Oscars like they were going out of fashion. This biographical drama about King George VI features some of Birmingham’s architectural gems. The Birmingham Town Hall and the stately Aston Hall play a starring role, giving us a glimpse of the city’s royal charm.
Ready Player One (2018)
Fast forward to a more futuristic Birmingham in Ready Player One. This sci-fi adventure transformed Birmingham’s Library into a virtual reality arcade, making the city look like it jumped straight out of a video game. With a bit of movie magic, Birmingham can look as futuristic as Tokyo when needed.
Kingsman: The Golden Circle (2017)
Let’s talk action with Kingsman: The Golden Circle. If you thought Birmingham’s New Street Station was just for catching trains, this film will change your mind. The station turned into a hub of spy activity, showing that Birmingham can be as sleek and sophisticated as any James Bond location.
Suffragette (2015)
There’s also Suffragette, a film that dives deep into the early feminist movement in Britain. Again, the Jewellery Quarter and Victoria Square take centre stage, offering a backdrop that’s as powerful and poignant as the film’s message, showing that the city has some serious historical gravitas.
The Lady in the Van (2015)
Rounding off our list is the heartwarming The Lady in the Van. This biographical comedy-drama tells the quirky tale of a homeless woman living in her van in writer Alan Bennett’s driveway. But here’s the Birmingham twist – some scenes were filmed on Gloucester Road in the city.
Conclusion
Birmingham – a city known for its vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and fun nights with friends – is also a hotbed for Hollywood blockbusters. From historical dramas to futuristic sci-fi adventures, Birmingham has proven it can roll with the big names in Tinseltown. It’s not just about the places; it’s about the stories they tell and the memories they create. So, next time you’re watching a movie, keep an eye out for Birmingham. Who knows, you might just spot your favourite curry house in the background of a blockbuster hit!
