New film could bring 'Little Voice' effect back to resort

Council bosses hope providing the backdrop to Screwed, based on the best-selling novel of the same name by former prison officer Ronnie Thompson, will provide bring similar movie magic to the shooting of Little Voice a decade ago.

It is being directed by Reg Traviss, who has been dating singer Amy Winehouse for the past few months, and stars James D'Arcy, of Master and Commander fame, with Frank Harper and Noel Clarke also taking leading roles.

Scarborough Council officers have been assisting with locations for the film, with shooting set to take place from next week and into October.

The council hopes the gritty movie about life as a prison officer will be as big as a success as Little Voice, which starred Michael Caine, Ewan McGregor, Jim Broadbent and Jane Horrocks.

Ironically, the original play was based in Manchester but the producers opted for a seaside setting because it was felt resort towns attract a broad range of characters and they needed to make Caine's Cockney presence credible.

A council spokesman said yesterday: "Any disruption while filming takes place will be negligible and will be far outweighed by the benefits. We could see the Little Voice factor all over again, with an increase in visitor numbers to Scarborough, and many people wanting to seek out all the places that feature in the film, like Dean Road Gaol.

"It could be a real boost for the local economy, with the positive effect on tourism lasting for many years to come."

A spokesman from the production team said: "We are delighted to be shooting in Scarborough and would like to thank Scarborough Borough Council for the tremendous help it has given us.

"This is a very exciting project and Scarborough has just what we are looking for in terms of locations. The locals we have met so far have been amazingly friendly and we can't wait to start shooting."

The film's producers are also looking for Scarborough men – preferably those over 18 – to become involved in the film as extras. Anyone interested should email [email protected]