"The Blind Side" Movie Decor

I have a new post up on ::Silver Screen Surroundings:: on the set decorating of the new movie "The Blind Side". Read the post here.

 

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Movie Set Decor: Atonement

The new film Atonement which comes out this week and stars Keira Knightley and James McAvoy is partially set in British countryside of 1935. The New York Times had an interesting article this week about the Shropshire Mansion "Stokesay" that was used as the setting for part of the movie. This late 1800's foreboding Victorian manse is owned by Caroline Magnus, who, along with her brother, unexpectedly inherited the estate fifteen years ago from an elderly aunt. Although she was single (40 at the time), living in London with friends, a boyfriend and a budding career in counseling, she decided to give it all up to move in and take care of the old place.

Jonathan Player for the New York Times

While she managed to scrape together money over the years to put on a new roof, upgrade the electrical and much of the plumbing, the interior decor was lacking. Part of the reason was because she was forced to auction off much of the contents to pay for everything. She was actually hoping that a movie or tv crew might find the estate interesting, and so they did.

Jonathan Player for the New York Times

Jonathan Player for the New York Times

Movie still photography by Alex Bailey

Jonathan Player for the New York Times

Jonathan Player for the New York Times

Movie still photography by Alex Bailey


Jonathan Player for the New York Times

Jonathan Player for the New York Times

Happily, because of the location fee paid, improvements made by the production and its new found status as a tourist attraction, Ms. Magnus is able to continue the maintenance of the mansion. "Atonement" tours are available for $25 per person for groups larger than 20. Pretty reasonable!

I'm definitely looking forward to seeing the movie!

ETA: Visit Stokesay's website here for more photos.