Features / television
The Outlaws series three returns to screens
The Outlaws is back for a third series of the community service comedy thriller, with scenes filmed and set in Bristol.
Made by Big Talk Studios and Stephen Merchant’s production company, Four Eyes, the series follows a group of strangers forced together by a community payback sentence in Bristol.
With crime boss The Dean (Claes Bang) behind bars awaiting trial, the ‘Outlaws’ attempt to move on with their lives. This is until one of them returns with a deadly secret, launching them back into danger.
is needed now More than ever
Production was once again based out of Bristol’s very own Bottle Yard Studios, where sets were built for key interiors.
Behind the Scenes of the Outlaws series three – photo: Big Talk Studios
Luke Alkin, Executive Producer at Big Talk Studios, said: “We’ve been very lucky to make three series of The Outlaws at The Bottle Yard Studios. As a production base and as studios, they are a great place to work… For a proudly Bristol-set show, the range and variety of locations the city offers is unparalleled and was a key part of The Outlaws’ distinct identity.”
Another key location was St Weburgh’s City Farm. In the new series, the ‘Outlaws’ are made to complete their community service on a farm, under the watchful eye of supervisor Diane (Jessica Gunning).
Behind the scenes at St. Weburgh’s City Farm – photo: Big Talk Studios
The scenes at Bristol City Farm were some of the cast’s favourites.
Jessica Gunning, (Diane), said: “All of my favourite scenes were the ones we filmed on the City Farm in Bristol. It’s so amazing to see it all come to life. Some of the places were already here on the farm itself, but our props and our art departments did all the signs and built this massive shed, which I just think is amazing. And seeing all the ‘Outlaws’ back in their tabards.”
Other locations used in the series include The Washington Guesthouse in Clifton, King Square in Stokes Croft and St Peters Rise in Knowle.
The series has utilised local talent throughout production, with Bristol-based writer and director, Michael Jenkins joining the team as Trainee Director for episodes across the new series.
Michael-Jenkins (centre) with Directors Stephen Merchant (Right) and Curtis Vowell (left) photo: Big Talk Studios
The production team gave behind-the-scenes access to students aged 16-18 studying Film and Production Diplomas with Boomsatsuma, Bottle Yard’s on-site education provider.
Writer, director and star of The Outlaws, Stephen Merchant (Greg), was keen to showcase the many talents of the city. He said: “I was born and raised in Bristol. The show is very much a love letter to Bristol…I love showcasing the city. It’s very visual, it’s full of street art, and it’s very hilly which adds interesting depths to the show. Also, the people of Bristol are very welcoming to us. I like the idea of making it another character in the show. In this show, it gets to play itself.”
The Outlaws series three begins on Thursday on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, and on Friday on Amazon Prime Video.
main photo: Four Eyes Production
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