The UK is full of picturesque university campuses that continuously make their way onto the big screen. Whether it is for a sci-fi, musical or a superhero movie, universities are no stranger to transforming into film sets. Here are five movies you may not realise were filmed at UK universities.
Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone
The first film of the popular Harry Potter franchise was directed by Chris Columbus. It sees Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Rupert Grint take up their infamous roles as the mischievous wizards we know and love. The film transformed Oxford University’s Duke Humfrey’s Library, New College and Christ Church College into sets to bring the wizarding world to life.
Avengers: Age of Ultron
The University of East Anglia’s Sainsbury Centre turned into the Avengers Headquarters for the filming of Avengers: Age of Ultron. The building also appears again in Ant Man, Captain America: Civil War, Spider-Man: Homecoming and Avengers: Infinity war and Endgame. Eager fans spotted Robert Downey Jr., Chris Hemsworth, Chris Evans and Scarlett Johansson around campus as they filmed.
The Dark Knight
Directed by Christopher Nolan, this action-packed superhero movie features shots on location at University College London. Nolan himself is an alumni of UCL, where he studied English Literature and was also head of the uni’s film society.
Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again!
The dazzling sing along sequel starring Lily James and Cher was shot at the famous Oxford University. The stunning wooden architecture was background to the fan favourite When I Kissed The Teacher performance by young Donna. Oxford University also features in Eternals, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets and the upcoming movie Wonka, starring Timothee Chalamet.
Kingsman: The Secret Service
Starring Colin Firth and Mark Hamill, Imperial College London in South Kensington makes a quick appearance in this jam-packed spy film. The college provides the setting for a confrontation between Firth and Hamill.
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