Manchester is a very charismatic city, it has long been one of the UK’s cultural powerhouses, with a gritty charm and dynamic energy that have made it a favourite filming location for movies. Known for its rich history, iconic architecture, and vibrant neighbourhoods, Manchester’s filmic appeal has grown over the decades, with the city standing in for locations as diverse as New York, London, and even Gotham City. From Oscar-winning dramas to iconic British comedies, we will be exploring Manchester’s starring role in the movies, highlighting some of the most famous films and scenes shot in this iconic city.
One of Manchester’s most famous cinematic transformations was for the 2004 zombie thriller 28 Days Later. Directed by Danny Boyle, this post-apocalyptic classic brought an eerie quiet to the city’s normally bustling streets. Boyle, a native of nearby Lancashire, chose Manchester for key scenes where lead character Jim, played by Cillian Murphy, wanders through desolate urban landscapes. The film’s haunting imagery of empty streets and abandoned buildings gave Manchester a starring role, lending an authentic edge to Boyle’s portrayal of a society in collapse. In 28 Days Later, Manchester’s urban grit and historic architecture made it an ideal choice for showcasing a haunting, dystopian cityscape.
Another notable film that used Manchester as a double was Captain America: The First Avenger (2011). The movie’s production team turned Manchester’s Northern Quarter into a 1940s Brooklyn, meticulously transforming the area with American-style storefronts, street signage, and classic cars. This part of the city, with its red-brick buildings and cobblestone streets, was the perfect fit for Marvel’s vision of wartime New York. Fans of the movie may recognize Dale Street, where Steve Rogers (Chris Evans) runs through the streets of "Brooklyn." Manchester’s ability to pass as a mid-century American city is a testament to its versatile, cinematic appeal and the architectural richness of its neighbourhoods.
