Hollow Earth to be filmed in Millport? Islanders are keen
25 July, 2012
Will the adaptation of John Barrowman's children's book be filmed on Cumbrae? The novel's setting is thought to be based on the island, but whilst nothing has been confirmed yet, locals are keen to push the idea forward.
As s1millport first reported back in January, Hollow Earth is a children's fantasy written by Barrowman and his sister Carole, set on the fictional Auchinmurn, which is thought to be Cumbrae.
At the time, one of our contributors Paul Watling, of Isle of Cumbrae Tourist Association, pointed out: "The book is set on the 'island of Auchinmurn' which is so closely based on Cumbrae (it even has a lion rock)."
It has now been announced that Zodiak Kids have acquired the TV rights to a series based on the novel. So will it be filmed on our island?
When s1millport contacted the company a spokeswoman said: "This is just in the development stages. There aren't any filming details yet."
However, from all the comments over the last few months here on s1millport, it seems that many people are keen for the series to be filmed here. Locals are rallying together to make it happen.
Paul Watling - commented on a recent article about Hollow Earth that Edwin Deas had written for s1millport.
Paul said: "The authors have been promoting the island in their media coverage over here."
He also added: "Rest assured that the Tourist Board are not going to let such an opportunity slip by - that is why progress is being monitored and acted upon as required."
Ross Goldie commented on an s1millport Hollow Earth review by Charles Kelly. He said: "It's a potentially HUGE opportunity for the island as a whole. Let's all get together and see what we can do."
Ross also pointed out that some locals had been in touch with the book's publisher and had received very positive feedback to their suggestions.
Some locals met John and Carole Barrowman at their Hollow Earth Glasgow book-signing in February. At the meeting, the group told the siblings how keen they were to promote the island.
We reported at the time: "We truly believe that John and Carole's book will put Cumbrae firmly on the map for all readers and hope, in the event, of a television series that some of the filming may come to the island."
In response Chris Wright commented: "I hope it brings new people to the island and that any prospect of a film or series involves some filming on the island."
Exciting news for Millport! Do you want to help the campaign for filming to take place here? You can also let us know what you think by commenting here on s1millport.
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