The upcoming Netflix thriller *Havoc*, starring Tom Hardy and Forest Whitaker, is poised to put Wales firmly on the global filmmaking map. Despite being set in an unnamed American city, the entire production was filmed across South Wales locations including Swansea, Port Talbot and Cardiff.

Directed by Welsh filmmaker Gareth Evans (*The Raid*, *Gangs of London*), the film follows Hardy as a morally compromised detective investigating a failed drug deal. Evans revealed the project began with a single vivid image: "A corrupt cop at a crime scene scooping cocaine into a coffee cup."

The production transformed Welsh locations into American settings through creative ingenuity. Swansea's Brangwyn Hall doubled as a U.S. police precinct, while a custom-built fishing shack was constructed in the Merthyr Mawr countryside. "We looked for any architecture that might pass as Americana," Evans explained, noting that visual effects enhanced the remaining 60-70% of the required U.S. aesthetic.

The film represents a significant milestone for Wales' film industry as the largest feature ever shot entirely in the country, with post-production also completed in Cardiff. Netflix reports its Welsh productions, including *Sex Education*, have contributed over £200 million to the UK economy since 2020.

Aram Tertzakian of co-producer XYZ Films praised Wales' filming potential: "When people see what we pulled off in *Havoc*, it's going to blow their minds and make Wales a much more viable option for major productions." He highlighted the country's skilled crews, diverse locations and supportive infrastructure.

Despite pandemic delays and the U.S. writers' strike impacting production, Evans found creative synergy with Hardy, who also served as producer. "Tom brings deep exploration of complex characters, which fused perfectly with my action style," the director noted.

Welsh Culture Minister Jack Sargeant emphasized the project's importance: "Productions like *Havoc* deliver significant economic and reputational benefits, showcasing our world-class creative industries that employ over 35,000 talented professionals."

As anticipation builds for the film's release, *Havoc* has already secured its place as a landmark production in Wales' burgeoning film industry, demonstrating the country's capacity to host major international projects. With its combination of local talent and global star power, the thriller is expected to attract further high-profile productions to Welsh shores.