Written by on Jan 10, 2012. Posted in Production News

Thor director Kenneth Branagh scouts Guernsey for new feature project

Filmmaker Kenneth Branagh has scouted locations on the island of Guernsey for his new feature project, an adaptation of The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. Guernsey is a British Crown dependency and is part of the Channel Islands off France’s Normandy coast.

The book is set during World War II, when Guernsey was occupied by the Germans, and although Branagh has scouted the island it’s not yet certain that the project will shoot there. Producers on the film have been considering locations for at least six months – since before Branagh came onboard as Director – but have previously said that the lack of filming incentives on Guernsey could be a problem. The island still does not have an active film commission.

For the community, for Guernsey tourism and for the islands in general it would be absolutely fantastic if we could secure some location filming here.

Jason Moriarty, Guernsey Marketing and Tourism

Jason Moriarty is Guernsey’s Director of Marketing and Tourism and spoke to the BBC: “[Mr Branagh] very much liked the island and he knows the island, as do the other members of the team.

“We've been asked to keep the details confidential, but it is good news and we're in contact on a regular basis. For the community, for Guernsey tourism and for the islands in general it would be absolutely fantastic if we could secure some location filming here.”

The shoot is likely to be budgeted at around USD25 million and marks a change of pace for Branagh. His last directing project was Thor for Marvel and he recently turned down the chance to direct the sequel.