After the Viaduct closure, the next slowdown planned will be for a “major film production” that will feature scenes shot on the Viaduct.
UPDATE: Looks like the film is “Fifty Shades Darker” and will be primarily filmed in Vancouver BC. This week’s filming will likely be establishing shots for the sequel to “Fifty Shades of Grey” – per usual, Vancouver will be Seattle’s stand-in.
Filming will take place starting this Thursday, May 19th through Thursday, May 26th. Filming will occur between 9am and 3pm, with rolling slowdowns for traffic (meaning: the Viaduct will not be closed, but traffic will slow with the assistance of uniformed SPD officers).
Per Kate Becker, Director of Film + Music + Special Events:
“We are thrilled to host another major film project in Seattle. The project will have a significant economic impact on the city and create high-paying jobs for our local cast and crew. The competition for film production is fierce, and we are thrilled that our reputation as a film-friendly city helped to secure this project which will be seen by audiences in theaters around the world.”
No word on the film production company, other than that it’s a “major” player. Also no word on the film. The company is hiring over 100 cast and crew during the 6-day filming and 20-day production schedule in Seattle. Additional scenes will be filmed in Pioneer Square.