Steve McQueen shoots new film in Greenwich
Film and TV students at the University of Greenwich were given the opportunity to work on set as their campus was used for scenes from a new Sir Steve McQueen film.
The acclaimed director is shooting a story of the London Blitz as seen through the eyes of Londoners and features scenes shot at a transformed Nevada Street just behind the university’s Stockwell Street building.
Students took part as location marshals, and were given access to exclusive guided tours of the set. And they have been promised a masterclass with Sir Steve in the coming year when they will be able to quiz the world-famous film-maker in an exclusive session.
Third year film and TV production student George Harry, working as a location marshal for the production, said: “With this being so local and a big production, I really wanted to be involved – it’s a good opportunity.”
“I’ve got shifts across four days, which I’m being paid for. I’m a location marshal, so I help with traffic on set, help the props department keep the set lit and lots of other bits to help the set run smoothly. “
Misha Myers, head of stage and screen at the university, said: “The opportunity for on-set experience has been wonderful for the students who have fed back that they learned a lot about the multitude of roles and processes involved in the making of a major film.
“Specifically, [they heard] about the negotiations and research that goes into building an entrance to the Stepney Green Tube from the 1940s – in Greenwich!
“We look forward to chatting with director Sir Steve McQueen about his processes developing stories that reflect diverse life experiences.”
Pictured top: Creating the film set – with a mocked-up Stepney Green Underground Station (Picture: University of Greenwich)