Tom Hardy’s ‘Havoc’ Helps Netflix Inject $265 Million Into Wales’ Economy – Here’s How

Netflix’s strategic push to transform Wales into a premier production hub has proven to be a significant economic boon, generating an impressive £200 million ($265 million) for the U.K. economy since 2020. The latest milestone comes as Netflix prepares to launch its action thriller Havoc, starring Tom Hardy, which will also claim the title of the largest feature film ever shot entirely within Wales. The investment underscores the growing prominence of Wales as a vital filming destination and highlights the economic and cultural ripple effects of Netflix’s expanding presence in the region.

Netflix’s investments in Wales are part of a broader effort to bolster its U.K. production footprint, with the streamer increasingly turning to the country’s creative industries. According to a report released by Netflix in partnership with Creative Wales, the productions filmed in Wales have had far-reaching economic consequences, providing support to over 500 Welsh businesses across various sectors since 2020. The total economic impact is a testament to Wales’ growing role as a cornerstone of Netflix’s content creation strategy.

A Thriving Filming Hub in Wales

Anna Mallett, Netflix’s VP of production for the U.K., expressed the company’s growing commitment to Wales, noting, “From Sex Education to The Crown, and now to Havoc, some of our most beloved titles were filmed or produced in Wales. Blessed with incredible creative talent and beautiful natural landscapes, Wales is an amazing place to make entertainment.” The country’s vast and varied landscapes have proven to be a draw for production teams, while its rich creative talent pool continues to impress top-tier filmmakers.

In addition to Havoc, Wales has played host to other major Netflix productions, including the highly popular The Witcher series, amplifying the region’s reputation as a filming hotspot. The financial ripple effect from these productions extends far beyond the immediate world of film and television. For every £1 ($1.32) Netflix spends in Wales, 58 pence (76 cents) is directly funneled into the TV and film sectors, with the remainder benefiting industries such as rental and leasing, food and hospitality, and creative arts.

Building a Sustainable Talent Pipeline

The investment in Welsh infrastructure and talent is yielding long-term benefits. The production of Sex Education is a prime example of how Netflix is helping to nurture local talent, having established over 60 trainee and apprenticeship roles, many of which evolved into full-time industry positions. Netflix’s commitment to education and talent development is further demonstrated through its “Ignite Your Creativity” program, launched in partnership with the National Youth Theatre. The program has already reached over 350 young people across Wales through workshops in cities like Newport, Cardiff, Port Talbot, Torfaen, and Bridgend.

Welsh Culture Minister Jack Sargeant has also celebrated the region’s thriving creative industries, which employ over 35,000 individuals. “We are immensely proud of our Welsh creative industries, which employ over 35,000 talented individuals, and the world-class infrastructure we have in place for film and TV productions,” Sargeant said, highlighting the robust framework that supports the growth of the local industry.

Cultural Identity and Welsh Representation

Beyond its economic impact, Netflix has also embraced Welsh cultural identity, offering Welsh-language subtitles on high-profile content such as The Adam Project and Red Notice. In 2023, the platform made a significant move by licensing Dal Y Mellt, its first Welsh-language series. This demonstrates Netflix’s commitment to authentic cultural representation, further deepening its ties with Wales.

Director Gareth Evans, a Welsh native himself, expressed his pride in filming Havoc in his home country. “It was such an exciting prospect to make a film such as Havoc in Wales. Seeing the impact that productions of its scope can have on local businesses while showcasing the creative talent here has been incredible,” Evans said. The film, which is set to become a major release for Netflix, is not only a thrilling cinematic experience but also a testament to the rich potential of Wales as a film production hub.

Looking to the Future

Creative Wales is optimistic about the future, with interim head Joedi Langley noting the organization’s excitement about continuing to partner with Netflix. “We look forward to working in partnership with Netflix for many years to come to help Wales realize its full potential as a filming destination for major local and international productions,” Langley said. With continued investment and a growing reputation as a filming destination, Wales is poised to play a pivotal role in the global entertainment landscape for years to come.

The economic and cultural impacts of Netflix’s investment in Wales are undeniable. From generating millions for the local economy to creating opportunities for young talent and promoting Welsh culture, the collaboration between Netflix and Wales is proving to be a mutually beneficial partnership that will only grow stronger in the years ahead.