For the first time, in 2018, an entire feature film was shot in Argyll and Bute, bringing in a crew of 200 for a total of six weeks.
This was just one of 40 productions filmed in Argyll and Bute from January 2018 to January 2019, bringing in an estimated spend of £1,088,500 to the local economy.
In total, over the year, there were 124 enquiries from companies looking for suitable locations in which to film or photograph.
Argyll and Bute is actively promoted as a film-friendly location via its bespoke website, social media, industry visits and attendance at industry conferences.
Councillor Aileen Morton, Policy Lead for Economic Development, said: “Here in Argyll and Bute we are in a fantastic position capitalise on the growing Scottish film and television industry.
“We have spectacular, unspoiled scenery, a vast range of locations and the number – and quality – of productions that have come here indicates we are a popular choice with production companies.
“Through our Economic Development Service we provide fully confidential advice to film units. This one-stop-shop liaises with other council departments, offers suggestions on locations, has information on land ownership, and provides valuable local knowledge.
“As well as boosting the local economy through production spend, in the longer term we hope this will boost our tourism based on visitors coming to visit the site of some of their favourite films.”
Throughout 2018 the rich variety of productions included:
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Then Came You (working title Love me to Death), the first feature film to be completely shot in Argyll and Bute, starring Scottish comedian Craig Ferguson;
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Filming for Stella McCartney’s autumn collection which feature Kintyre Schools’ Pipe Band, led by one of the pipers from the original Mull of Kintyre video;
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Sky Arts’ Landscape Artist of the Year filmed an episode at Inveraray, which was voted the best location of the series;
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The BBC’s critically acclaimed The Cry featured Arrochar; and
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Skoda filmed its We Love Cycling campaign at Inveraray and Lochgoilhead.
There has also been an increase in the number of members of the public and community groups coming forward to register their property for filming, which enables the council to offer a fantastic range of unique locations for projects. If you would like more information on how to register your property as a potential film location, go to: www.filminargyll.co.uk