Wales Takes Center Stage in New Action Thriller

In a thrilling new Netflix release, 'Havoc', Tom Hardy dives into a role that promises to showcase Wales as a hotbed for international filmmaking. The film, directed by the Welsh talent Gareth Evans, unfolds the chaotic aftermath of a drug deal gone horribly wrong.

Action-Packed Filming in the Heart of Wales

Though set in an unnamed US city, every pulse-pounding moment—from car chases to intense shootouts—was meticulously shot across captivating Welsh landscapes. Hardy and his co-star Forest Whitaker were spotted in south Wales during the filming in 2021, but the project faced significant delays due to the pandemic and a writers’ strike in the US.

A Vision Brought to Life by Talented Creators

The vision for 'Havoc' ignited from Evans' unique concept. He envisioned a scene where a corrupt cop scoops cocaine into a coffee cup amid a brutal crime scene. Evans, acclaimed for his work on 'The Raid' and 'Gangs of London', was ecstatic to have Hardy contribute not only as the lead but also as a producer. "His depth in exploring morally complex characters perfectly complemented my action-film style, creating a unique mashup that elevates the storytelling to new heights," Evans stated.

Transforming Wales Into America

Creating a believable American backdrop in south Wales was no small feat. Evans explored various locations from Swansea to Cardiff, searching for architecture that could mimic a US setting. His efforts resulted in innovative solutions: Swansea’s Brangwyn Hall transformed into a police precinct, while Swansea University’s Bay campus supplied exterior street shots. A custom-built fishing shack completed the project in Merthyr Mawr’s scenic countryside.

A Collaborative Effort with Global Ambitions

While primarily filmed in Wales, 'Havoc' also teamed up with US production powerhouse XYZ Films. Co-founder Aram Tertzakian, who has collaborated with Evans since the 2018 horror film 'Apostle', spent significant time in an Airbnb in Cardiff during the filming process. "Gareth's passionate dedication to bringing films to Wales makes this project especially exciting. I believe 'Havoc' will put Wales on the radar of filmmakers looking for fresh locations," Tertzakian expressed.

Wales: The Future Filming Frontier

Post-'Havoc', the film industry is poised to view Wales as a viable filmmaking destination. Tertzakian believes that the impressive execution of this project will inspire others to consider Welsh landscapes for future productions. "Wales has everything—a hardworking crew, stunning locations, and a vibrant culture. After showcasing what we've accomplished with 'Havoc', I think the industry's perception of Wales will be forever changed," he concluded.