Unlikely UK location doubles for New York as Hollywood star seen filming

Canary Wharf has been branded the UK’s answer to New York City thanks to its hotspot as a film location

What do Hollywood icons Angelina Jolie, Idris Elba, Emma Thompson and Colin Firth all have in common? They’ve all been spotted filming in London’s financial hub Canary Wharf, which has been dubbed the UK’s ‘mini-Manhattan’.

With its sleek skyscrapers, sophisticated shopping centre and futuristic-looking underground station, it’s not surprising the area has caught the eye of film and television makers who are putting the area in the spotlight and showcasing its screen-ability. Just this month, A-lister Angelina Jolie was spotted sporting a stunning blonde bob during filming for new Netflix comedy Anxious People – and she’s just the latest in a long line of Hollywood celebrities who have been frequenting the area.

Taylor Swift addresses ‘actual amnesia’ fans got from Eras Tour

Princess Andre stuns at Thorpe Park after mum Katie Price’s ‘concerning behaviour’ on tour

Film expert Adam Brannon, founder and editor of Movie Metropolis, says he’s not surprised that Canary Wharf is catching the attention of filmmakers as it offers both scale and accessibility. “Unlike many parts of London, particularly central London, its wide-open spaces, controlled estates and modern infrastructure make it easier to manage large-scale shoots,” he says. “Whether that be a car chase or an intricately choreographed fight sequence.

“Like New York, the area’s dramatic night-time lighting and reflective skyscrapers also lend themselves really well to stunning cinematography. And both London and New York offer generous tax incentives to attract film and TV productions, which means this central city location and incentives for crews in the UK means it can take the place of NYC relatively easily.”