Last year we saw productions pause for several months. As soon as it was possible, the industry got back on its feet and brought in covid guidelines and testing to ensure filming was able to resume. The future began to look bright once more, TV series like The Pursuit of Love entered production and welcomed back some of our superb Supporting Artists.
What is The Pursuit of Love?
The 1945 novel has been adapted by Emily Mortimer in a 3-part limited series. Set in a world between two World Wars, it explores the life of Linda Radlett, portrayed by Cinderella’s Lily James. Consumed by a desire for love and marriage, Linda and her cousin Fanny embark on the hunt for the ideal husband. Their friendship is put to the test as Fanny settles for one way of life while Linda chases the opposite, following a wild and more lavish lifestyle. The Pursuit of Love promises an array of extravagant costumes, grand locations and a terrific all-star cast.
“I’ve always loved Nancy Mitford so when I was asked to adapt [her novel] The Pursuit of Love it was impossible to say no. It’s an outrageously funny and honest story, whose central character – the wild, love-addicted Linda Radlett – still reads as radical.”
Emily Mortimer, Writer and Director of the BBC’s The Pursuit of Love.
Adapting during covid-19
After working with production to book Supporting Artists, we spoke to Project Manager Hannah, about her experience working on one of the first productions to film amid covid-19.
Was this your first production after or during lockdown?
Yes, it was the first production I began working on, in summer 2020. It was due to start just before the first lockdown but was postponed for obvious reasons. My colleague Arron worked on the fittings in July, then I took over shortly after as filming began.
What was the planning and filming process like compared to a pre-covid world?
It took some getting used to when organising various covid tests as they had to be carried out within a certain period of time. We also had to ensure whoever production wanted to book was available for both the shoot days and specific covid test dates. It was a new experience, but everyone involved understood the importance of mandatory covid testing.
Production also needed to book drivers only, to ensure Artists were able to travel alone and avoid mixing with others on public transport. This, combined with covid test availability and ensuring Artists had the right period-look was an exciting challenge to take on. The new requirements we had to adhere to contributed to increased safety and reassurance for everyone on set in an uncertain time.
SA experiences on set
For many Supporting Artists, The Pursuit of Love was the first production they had worked on in several months. We asked them to share their experiences being back on set and working on this exciting adaptation at such an unusual time.
Watch the Trailer
The 3-part limited series takes centre stage on Sunday 9th May at 9pm on BBC One.