Film crews were spotted in two unlikely Birmingham neighbourhoods this week to capture a brand new Christmas movie – and the star has been ‘blown away’.
A little independent perfume shop on Stratford Road in Sparkhill and the Castle Bromwich Hall Hotel have been transformed by actor, model and producer Caprice Bourret for her latest project.
An English Christmas Wish is due to be released this coming winter, likely to screen on a major TV channel, with Birmingham locations a major feature in the tale.
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Caprice turned rooms within the 1500s Jacobean mansion house in Castle Bromwich into a festive country home to tell the story of photographer Elise St Lawrence who finds herself returning to ‘the Cotswolds’ to iron out her late father’s affairs.
‘Magic and romance’ can be expected for the film, one of a number produced by Caprice’s company JJLove Productions.
As well as Caprice, An English Christmas Wish features Scottish ‘Braveheart’ actor Matthew Martin, Coronation Street actor Victoria Ekanoye and Wicked stage cast member Abbie Quinnen.
Caprice spent time capturing scenes at The Perfume Closet on Stratford Road where expert Sajida Parveen sells luxury fragrances in the community.
The actor has spoken of being wowed by the city, and we’ll share more about our visit to the live set, a full photo gallery behind the scenes and our chat with Caprice in upcoming stories.
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Describing the city as ‘wonderful’ and speaking of how she’s been so warmly welcomed in both neighbourhoods, Caprice explained that she had plans to film more movies in Birmingham.
She described it as a ‘best kept secret’ and travelling through the city scoping out potential locations that might inspire future stories.
The film crew took over all of the function rooms at Castle Bromwich Hall Hotel and its lavish historic spaces were decorated in Christmas lights, trees and wreaths to set the festive scene.
Emma Green, sales manager at hotel, told BirminghamLive: “It’s unlike anything we’ve ever done here before but we’re having the best time and everyone’s been so nice!
“I’m very excited to see the film when it comes out.”
Past festive romance films by Caprice has been screened on Channel 5, heartwarming accessible tales that viewers have been able to enjoy for free.
More information is to follow about the film’s launch date and where it can be seen this coming winter.
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