Filming of new superhero comedy at Leaderfoot Viaduct captured in series of stunning snaps
Last updated 9th May 2024
Cameras are rolling at the Leaderfoot Viaduct, near Melrose, for a second day - as filming continues on a new superhero comedy.
HBO's The Franchise stars Richard E Grant and is being directed by Sam Mendes.
Temporary lights are set up on the A68 after four cars collided as production got underway yesterday (Wednesday).
Local photographer Neil Renton captured the opening day scenes in a series of stunning snaps, taken from the neighbouring roadway, which remains open to the public.
His photographs - which he has given us permission to share - show actors in full make-up and costume on set, surrounded by pyrotechnics, which have been releasing balls of flame.
And, despite all the atmospheric smoke, some are so clear they even show black dots on the faces of some characters, dressed in what appears to be superhero outfits, which - using computer wizardry - can later be used to alter their final appearance before viewers get to see them on TV.
The technique was used to make Harrison Ford look younger when he shot flashback scenes for Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny at the same Tweed-side location three years ago.
But it can also be used to add alien, or non-human, heads.
As well as Richard E Grant, other stars spotted on site include Billy Magnussen, Isaac Powell, Darren Goldstein and Ruaridh Mollica; while creator Armando Iannucci is also rumoured to have been spotted in the area.
The huge cast and crew have set up base at Charlesfield Industrial Estate - four miles down the road, near St Boswells - with a flurry of vehicles transporting them back and forth to the site.
A huge marquee and catering venues have also been set-up, with filming expected to continue until the end of the week.
Dismantling of the site will then follow from Sunday, May 12th, to Friday, May 17th.
In a letter to locals, Sammy Thomson, supervising location manager with Jettison Productions Ltd, said: "We are extremely conscious that we are both guests in your neighbourhood and we strive at all times to be a considerate and respectful production.
"Filming will take place during the hours of 7am and 7pm. However, on our filming days there may be an increased presence of crew and vehicles in the hours shortly before and after the filming.
"We have been in touch with Scottish Borders Council and Film Edinburgh regarding filming plans.
"Crew will also be encouraged to make use of local businesses in the area (shops, restaurants, hotels etc) during their down time, so we hope this will be of benefit to the local area too."
WATCH: Click on the link below to view our video from Leaderfoot...
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