Essex is hitting the big screens with a feature in a sequel to a popular whodunnit.
The third instalment of the Knives Out series, including Hollywood A-listers Daniel Craig, Glenn Close and Josh Brolin, was partially filmed at Holy Innocents Church in High Beech and Witham.
Filming took place during 2024, as the church in Epping Forest was chosen for its classic Gothic architecture and its proximity to woodland, helping to capture the upstate New York setting.
Councillor Mark Durham, cabinet member for the arts, heritage and culture at Essex County Council, said: “Having Knives Out filmed on location in Essex underlines just how attractive our county is for film and TV productions.
“Essex is a desirable place for film-makers as we have so many different environments in the county.
“This is exactly where regional film offices add real value. They help productions find the right locations, navigate logistics, and ultimately attract filming into the region.
“By doing this, Essex positions itself as a go-to destination for world-class projects.”
The Essex Film Office, part of Essex County Council, supported the production.
They secured filming permissions, coordinated with the local authority, while also helping to facilitate sites near a second key filming location outside Witham.
Erica Gilson, manager of the Essex Film Office, is delighted that another big film has been shot in the county.
She said: “In recent years, we’ve welcomed Slow Horses, Spiderman and the production team for The Essex Serpent, to name just a few, here in Essex.
“Wake Up Dead Man was a major moment for us, it showed how our county can stand out on the global stage.
“The filmmakers were searching for a hero church location in the UK that could convincingly double as a church in the USA.
“The director had a crystal-clear vision, and over 100 churches across the UK were considered, and Essex delivered the perfect setting.”
Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Our Mystery launched in cinemas across the UK on November 26 and will be available for streaming on Netflix from December 12.
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