Key Highlights
- Cillian Murphy reprised his role as Tommy Shelby in “The Immortal Man.”
- Kelmarsh Tunnel served as a filming location for the new series.
- The tunnel is part of Northampton to Market Harborough line and is 480m long.
- Director Tom Harper praised the tunnel’s enclosed nature, allowing for private shoots.
Peaky Blinders: Homecoming to Northamptonshire
Netflix’s The Immortal Man, a continuation of the beloved series Peaky Blinders, has found an unexpected gem in its filming locations. While the show is often associated with Birmingham, the creators have taken the opportunity to return to their roots.
A Hidden Gem Discovered
And let me tell you, Kelmarsh Tunnel is a hidden gem indeed. Located on the former Northampton to Market Harborough line, this 480m long unlit structure has become a filming hotspot for The Immortal Man. It’s not every day that an abandoned railway tunnel becomes a prime spot for a TV series, but apparently, it works wonders.
Director’s Praise
Tom Harper, the director of The Immortal Man, couldn’t be more pleased with his choice. “We wanted to create a big story that felt like an event,” he said. “And Kelmarsh Tunnel is one of those treasures you sometimes find when you’re filming.” The enclosed nature of the tunnel allowed for discreet and uninterrupted shoots, making it perfect for scenes requiring a sense of isolation.
Harper continued, “Even now with so much filming going on, when you see a film shot somewhere, it still feels exciting. There’s something about the silver screen that just has some magic.” For those who have seen The Immortal Man, these words ring true—every shot from Kelmarsh Tunnel is a testament to the series’ commitment to authenticity.
A Homecoming for Peaky Blinders
Netflix’s decision to use Northamptonshire as a filming location for The Immortal Man is more than just a nod to local pride. It’s a return to roots, symbolizing the series’ evolution from a regional show to one with national appeal. Creator Stephen Knight emphasized this by stating, “This time I thought it was really important to come home.” For fans of Peaky Blinders, this move is not just about scenery—it’s about history and nostalgia.
With the film set in Birmingham during World War II, the choice of location adds a layer of realism that can’t be replicated. The tunnel itself serves as more than just a backdrop; it becomes part of the story, enhancing the narrative with its own silent presence.
A Sneak Peak and a Secret
One of the most intriguing aspects of using Kelmarsh Tunnel is its remote location. Director Harper noted that “Kelmarsh Tunnel is quite tricky to get into,” which meant that even when filming was happening, it didn’t attract much attention from Peaky Blinders fans hoping for a sneak peek. This secrecy added an extra layer of mystery and excitement around the production.
Yet, despite the location’s seclusion, the tunnel continues to draw attention in its own way.
With The Immortal Man set to be shown in selected cinemas before streaming on Netflix from March 20, the series is poised for a successful return to the big screen. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the show, this latest installment promises to deliver the drama and suspense that have made Peaky Blinders a modern classic.
You might think this is new, but in fact, it’s just another testament to how Peaky Blinders continues to innovate while staying true to its roots. So mark your calendars for March 20—there’s magic waiting on the screen.