On Wednesday 18th of March, Portwrinkle was transformed by the arrival of a large film production crew. Vans (full of equipment and props), motorhomes (for the talent), fencing, security, and large numbers of personnel appeared, occupying most of the car park. The slipway was closed off by very friendly security staff (one with a young puppy). Then we saw several camera rigs on stands, a steadicam outfit, lighting, gazebos, carts carrying equipment and props all carried down the slipway to Hoodny Cove & Beach. People were constantly moving between the car park and the beach, all connected by walkie talkies.Catering arrived and was distributed. Then filming commenced. The public were kept away so we couldn't get many photos of the actual filming. Then, by 5.30pm, the whole circus was packed away and then moved off. The next day more filming was done at Rame Head. Mark (Sparky) Ellis, the location manager, was effusive with his praise for the people of the area who he said were really helpful and tolerant during the set up and filming.
We understand that the film, described by 'Sparky' as a low budget period drama, is called The Housekeeper and stars Anthony Hopkins, Helena Bonham-Carter and Emma Laird. The film is based on a short story of the same name by Rose Tremain and is about Daphne Du Maurier who, of course, spent much of her life in Cornwall. We're told the same film crew also did some filming at Mount Edgcumbe House.
