Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw: Glasgow’s High-Speed Starring Role
Glasgow has solidified its status as a favorite filming location for Hollywood blockbusters. In our series, Lights, Camera, Glasgow: Hollywood Comes to Scotland, we explore the movies that have brought international stars and thrilling action sequences to the city’s streets. Today, we’re looking under the hood of Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw, a high-octane addition to the famed franchise.
Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw: Glasgow’s High-Speed Starring Role
Released in 2019, Hobbs & Shaw is a spin-off of the wildly popular Fast & Furious franchise. Starring Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Jason Statham, and Idris Elba, this action-packed film took Glasgow by storm, turning its streets into adrenaline-fueled race tracks.
Glasgow’s Role in the Film
The city’s bustling streets were transformed into a high-stakes chase sequence, doubling for London in some of the film’s most thrilling scenes. Areas like George Square and St. Vincent Street became the backdrop for car stunts, explosions, and high-speed action, showcasing Glasgow’s versatility as a filming location. The seamless transformation proved yet again that the city can double for some of the world’s most iconic urban settings.
Acting Talent
While the movie’s headliners include global stars like Dwayne Johnson and Jason Statham, the film also spotlighted Idris Elba, whose portrayal of the cyber-genetically enhanced villain Brixton Lore added gravitas to the narrative. Glasgow’s local talent also played key roles in supporting scenes, with extras and crew members contributing to the production’s success.
Behind-the-Scenes Action
Filming in Glasgow brought its share of excitement—and challenges. The production involved shutting down major city streets to accommodate the complex stunts and pyrotechnics. Locals and fans alike lined the streets to catch glimpses of the stars in action, with many sharing photos and videos on social media.
Lessons for Aspiring Actors
Hobbs & Shaw is a masterclass in physical acting and screen presence. Watching stars like Jason Statham and Idris Elba navigate action sequences with precision highlights the importance of preparation and adaptability. Aspiring actors can learn from their ability to balance intense physicality with compelling character work, proving that action roles demand more than just muscles.
Impact on Glasgow
Hosting a franchise as globally recognized as Fast & Furious cemented Glasgow’s reputation as a dynamic and adaptable filming destination. The movie’s success also boosted the local economy and drew attention to the city’s capacity to host large-scale productions, paving the way for future projects.
Call to Action for Actors
Inspired by Glasgow’s cinematic appeal and the stars who have graced its streets? Begin your acting journey with Acting Coach Scotland. Our courses are designed to prepare you for the demands of stage and screen, helping you build the skills needed to thrive in the entertainment industry.
Stay tuned for more in our series Lights, Camera, Glasgow: Hollywood Comes to Scotland, where we delve into the movies that have put Glasgow on the global film map.
