**Hollywood Drama “Salvable”, Filmed in Barry and Penarth, Debuts on Amazon and Apple TV**
Residents of Barry and Penarth have been keeping a close eye on their TV screens and streaming apps this month as their local streets and landmarks take centre stage in the newly released drama “Salvable”. The film, with an ensemble cast led by renowned actor Shia LaBeouf, is now available on major digital platforms including Amazon Video and Apple TV. The entire shoot was based in the Vale of Glamorgan during the spring of 2024, turning everyday backdrops into cinematic scenes and giving locals something exciting to talk about.
Shia LaBeouf, celebrated for his roles in blockbuster films such as “Transformers”, was spotted several times across Barry and Penarth last year throughout the production. The actor’s presence was met with much excitement among residents, many of whom took to social media to share selfies and chance encounters as he filmed. Interviews with passers-by recall LaBeouf candidly engaging with fans and even being photographed enjoying a cold drink in a Barry café on Holton Road.
“Salvable” tells the story of Sal, an ageing boxer played by Toby Kebbell, who struggles to come to terms with the triumphs and regrets of his past in a small and rugged seaside community. The gritty atmosphere of Barry’s coastline made for an apt setting, bringing writer-directors Bjorn Franklin and Johnny Marchetta’s vision to life as the production unfolded across some of the area’s most recognisable sites. Michael Socha, James Cosmo, and other notable performers round out the cast.
Penarth Pier earns its own cameo in the movie, with a particular scene showcasing the main characters ambling along its length against the striking backdrop of the Bristol Channel. Such nods to local landmarks have served as an unexpected delight for viewers from the area, according to comments posted online. Other shots in the film highlight Barry’s town centre and surrounding scenery, casting the Vale in a new, dramatic light.
Filming began in April 2024 and stretched over five weeks, generating a palpable buzz throughout Barry and Penarth. Several cast members, taking advantage of their stay, even marked the occasion by visiting local tattoo parlours. Industry sources highlight this project as part of a broader trend bringing high-profile productions to Wales in recent years, further bolstering the region’s creative credentials.
With its release on 2 May, “Salvable” now joins a list of recent film and TV projects shot in Wales, including the Netflix thriller “Havoc”, starring Tom Hardy. In a candid reflection, Hardy described the challenges faced during filming in South Wales, particularly when trying to match the right architectural style to the film’s gritty aesthetic. His experience underscores both the region’s appeal to filmmakers and the unique obstacles of on-location shooting.
Notably, the Vale of Glamorgan has already achieved recognition as a filming destination, famously serving as a backdrop for the much-loved comedy “Gavin and Stacey”. “Salvable” thus continues the tradition of drawing stars and film crews to the Welsh coast, with local economies benefiting from the increased exposure and temporary influx of cast, crew, and fans.
As “Salvable” streams worldwide, it is not only the narrative that captures attention but also the authentic portrayal of Barry and Penarth. Industry observers anticipate that this exposure could entice more productions to opt for Welsh locations, building on the region’s character and charm.
Cultural commentators suggest that such projects play a significant role in both showcasing and preserving local heritage, providing audiences with fresh perspectives and sparking renewed interest in Wales as a destination for filmmakers and tourists alike.
For now, residents of Barry and Penarth can enjoy their moment in the cinematic spotlight, watching their streets, coastline, and community spirit immortalised on screen – all from the comfort of their own homes.