A new BBC TV series which had previously been filmed in a seaside town in Kent has been filming in Bristol today. The series, which is called The Dream Lands, has been filming in Avonmouth on Tuesday (March 4) and is set to continue filming until Friday (March 7).
The Dream Lands will be a six-part BBC One series set 14 years into the future. The dystopian drama will explore the impact of climate change and society inequality on the Dreamland Margate resort.
The BBC One series is a TV adaptation of Rosa Rankin-Gee’s novel Dreamland, named after the famous Margate theme park. It tells the story of Chance, a young woman who ‘discovers life and love, while being forced to fight for her family’s survival in a world that’s crumbling around her’.
Describing the new series, a BBC spokesperson last year said: ““It’s 2039 and temperatures are soaring, seas are rising, and the political climate is equally as menacing. Chance is living a life of crime just to get by, when her community is singled out for a government rejuvenation scheme, promising to bring her coastal town back to life.
“But when Chance falls in love with Franky, a girl with ties to the establishment, she and those closest to her begin to realise that all may not be as it seems. The Dream Lands is a thrilling voyage of romantic awakening and self-discovery, a defiant community fighting back. Part conspiracy thriller and part relationship drama, the story blazes with the enduring power of love and hope, in a world spinning out of control,” she added.
Filming took place in Avonmouth today, on Meadow Street in the afternoon and Portview Road in the evening, continuing until later this week.. It is understood that some of the scenes were filmed using smoke, fire and loud noises.
Some of the characters will be dressed up in military-style costumes and will hold replica weapons. Local authorities, including Avon and Somerset Police, were consulted and a licensed armourer will be present during the filming.
Filming had previously taken place in Margate itself, from the summer until December. Programme-makers at the time held open casting looking for young people to be involved.
The Dream Lands has been brought to the TV screens by BAFTA award-winning writer Kayleigh Llewellyn (In My Skin and Killing Eve) and stars Pascale Kann as Chance. The cast also features Emmy award-winner Anna Friel, Connor Swindells, Clara Rugaard, Katherine Parkinson and Golda Rosheuvel.