Netflix's new action thriller Havoc, starring Tom Hardy, is set to "put Wales on the map" for filmmakers worldwide. Directed by Welsh filmmaker Gareth Evans, the film follows a "jaded" detective navigating a corrupt city's criminal underworld in the aftermath of a botched drug deal. Although the story is set in an unnamed US city, the entire film was shot in various locations across Wales, including Cardiff, Swansea, and Port Talbot.
Filming took place in 2021 but faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic and a writers' strike in the US. The cast features notable actors such as Forest Whitaker, Luis Guzmán, Jessie Mei Li, and Timothy Olyphant, adding star power to the thrilling narrative.
Gareth Evans, known for his work on The Raid and Gangs of London, had a clear vision for Havoc. He recalled, "I had this, like, one core image which was a corrupt cop in a crime scene where a drug deal's gone wrong and for whatever reason he was scooping cocaine into a coffee cup." This image sparked the development of the film, which Evans describes as a blend of action and morally complex characters.
Recreating an American city in Wales presented unique challenges. Evans explained that he scoured locations in Swansea, Port Talbot, Cardiff, and Newport to find architecture that could convincingly represent Americana. He stated, "I started going around, like, Swansea, Port Talbot, Cardiff and Newport, looking for any little bit of architecture that I could find that might pass as a little bit Americana." The production team managed to achieve about 30% to 40% authenticity on camera, with visual effects enhancing the rest.
Key filming locations included Swansea's Brangwyn Hall, which served as the exterior of an American police precinct, and Swansea University's Bay campus, which provided exterior street shots. A fishing shack was also constructed in the Merthyr Mawr countryside for pivotal scenes.
US production company XYZ Films collaborated with Wales-based Severn Screen to bring Havoc to life. Aram Tertzakian, co-founder of XYZ Films, emphasized the importance of showcasing Wales as a viable filming location. He remarked, "Gareth brought me to Wales for this project because he is a great patriot and wanted to figure out how to make films in Wales." Tertzakian believes that Havoc will significantly raise awareness of Wales in the film industry, stating, "I think it's always been seen as an option but when they see Havoc and what we pulled off, I think it's going to blow their minds and really make Wales a lot more viable for a lot of people."
According to Netflix and Creative Wales, Havoc is the largest feature film ever shot entirely in Wales, with post-production also completed in Cardiff. Netflix highlighted that its productions in Wales, including Sex Education, have generated over £200 million for the UK economy since 2020. Jack Sargeant, Wales' Minister for Culture, noted that productions like Havoc deliver significant economic and reputational benefits, stating, "We are immensely proud of our Welsh creative industries, which employ over 35,000 talented individuals, and the world-class infrastructure we have in place for film and TV productions."
In addition to its thrilling narrative and action sequences, Havoc features a unique musical element. The Choir of King’s College London recorded a rendition of the twelfth-century composition "O frondens virga" by Hildegard von Bingen, which is included in the film's soundtrack. Dr. Joseph Fort, Director of the Chapel Choir at King's, expressed excitement about the choir's music reaching a global audience through its use in the film, saying, "I wonder what Hildegard would make of her music being featured in a film about a detective's journey through the criminal underworld."
The choir often performs this piece during December's Advent carol services at King’s Chapel, which have garnered significant attention, including a feature in the Guardian's best carol services selection in 2017.
As Havoc premiered on Netflix on April 25, 2025, audiences can expect a gripping story filled with action, drama, and a touch of Welsh culture. The film showcases not only the talent of its cast and crew but also the stunning landscapes and architecture of Wales, solidifying its place as a burgeoning hub for film production.
With its blend of star-studded performances, a compelling storyline, and a commitment to showcasing Welsh talent and locations, Havoc is set to captivate audiences worldwide. The film's success could pave the way for future projects in Wales, further enhancing the region's reputation as a prime filming destination.
