Hull’s links to Hollywood will be celebrated today, as Visit Hull and East Yorkshire joins with partners TransPennine Express and Hull Independent Cinema to launch a new digital trail, unveil a city centre mural and premiere a new Hollywood film.
Following its successful launch earlier this year, the ‘It must be Hullywood’ trail is now going digital with augmented reality through the app What Was Here. Like the printed map, Hullywood Digital will guide film enthusiasts to key filming locations across the city, allowing users to immerse themselves in movie scenes.
As part of the launch and app presentation, TransPennine Express will also unveil a new mural by local artist Andy Pea at Paragon Interchange, celebrating the city’s movie links as well as local talent.
Following the presentation and unveiling, Hull Independent Cinema will have the first public screening of the new Steve McQueen film The Blitz, with showings for guests and the public that evening at Vue cinema, Princes Quay (now sold out).
Cllr Rob Pritchard, portfolio holder for culture and leisure at Hull City Council said: “Hull’s links to Hollywood grow each year and with over 4,000 trail leaflets distributed since its launched in the spring, it’s clear there is a real appetite for it with residents and visitors.
“The AR version will really bring this trail to life and I can see it proving very popular. TransPennine Express’ new mural captures the spirit of Hullywood, as well as our talented bank of performers, perfectly and will make a fantastic addition to the station.
“I would also like to congratulate Hull Independent Cinemas for securing a first public screening of new blockbuster The Blitz with, of course, scenes shot across the city last year. I look forward to seeing Hull on the big screen once again.”
Ben Courtney, Station Manager at TransPennine Express, said: “It was incredible for Hull station to be a part of the Hullywood experience – and to see it transform into times gone by. We are excited for everyone to see us on the big screen.
“Our mural, which celebrates Hull’s links to the film industry and our place in the community will be pride of place for our customers to enjoy as they are passing through, and as part of the digital trail.”
James Russell, Chair of Hull Independent Cinema said: “We’re delighted to be working with VHEY to present Blitz in Hull so soon after its successful debut at BFI London Film Festival.
“Hull Independent Cinema exists to bring the work of great filmmakers like Steve McQueen to Hull audiences, and with so much of this film having been shot in Hull we’re sure that local people will be hugely enthusiastic about seeing the film with us.
“Big thanks go to Altitude Films for allowing us to screen the film.”
Hullywood digital is now available on the What Was Here app. The app can be downloaded from the relevant Apple, Android and Google apps stores here.
Public screenings of The Blitz are available today and Tuesday 19 November.
