Beautiful Somerset is back on the big screen, thanks to a new Swedish psychological thriller filmed largely on stunning Exmoor.
‘Unmoored’ will be available on major streaming platforms from mid-September, and possibly some local cinemas from mid-August.
The film is a an adaptation of ‘The Living and Dead in Winsford’, a novel written by award-winning Swedish crime author Hakan Nesser while he spent several months living in Exmoor National Park.
The film and book revolve around Maria Holinek, a famous Swedish TV presenter who flees Stockholm for Exmoor with her beloved dog, Castor, when accusations about her husband turn her life upside down.
The extensive Exmoor scenes were shot in late 2021 in the Simonsbath area and locations include the Barle Valley and The Exmoor Forest Inn, as well as Exford, Minehead and Wiveliscombe.
“Given the chance to make a film in Exmoor, we would absolutely recommend you do it,” said the film’s Producer, Naomi Despres. “Embrace the logistical challenges and you’ll be rewarded with fabulous locations and the cinematic joy of being able to point your camera in any direction and capture something magical.”
“We all fell in love with the area and are eager to get back,” added Director Caroline Ingvarsson. “I want to come back and make another film in Exmoor”.
Screen Somerset, Somerset Council’s film office, supports and promotes filming in the county in recognition of the economic and wider benefits it can bring. It is estimated that last year film and television production brought more than £4m of spend into the county.
Screen Somerset It also works with Visit Exmoor and Visit Somerset to capitalise on screen tourism – people visiting what they have seen on screen.
Councillor Mike Rigby, Somerset Council’s Lead Member for Economic Development, Planning and Assets, said:
“Filming is great for the local businesses and that’s why we’re working to make Somerset as film friendly as possible.
“A film like this is a wonderful shop window for Exmoor and for Somerset, and we were delighted to be involved”.
Unmoored will be available to stream on major platforms, including Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV, from for Monday 15 September. It may also be available in some Somerset cinemas from Thursday 15 August – check https://bulldog-film.com/films/unmoored/ for details.
Emma Thomasson, Chief Executive of Visit Exmoor, said:
“We’re delighted to see Exmoor featured so powerfully in Unmoored. The production has not only captured the dramatic spirit of the landscape but also brought real value to our local visitor economy. It’s another strong example of how film can support rural communities, celebrate distinctive places, and showcase Exmoor to new audiences.”
Enterprise and Communications Manager for Exmoor National Park Authority, Dan James, said:
“We’re very proud that Exmoor’s uniquely special qualities continue to inspire literature and film. ‘Unmoored’ showcases the character of our National Park, its wild beauty and dramatic landscapes, and we’re thrilled to see it brought to life on screen. It’s a reminder of how Exmoor continues to spark creativity around the world.”
