Help finding a bar to film in...

[Brend-O-Tron]

Hi there, I'm making a short film hopefully over the next few months, and really need a bar to film a few scenes in. Does anyone have any idea where I could find one or how to go about finding one? It'll be based in London, and we have a small crew already. I'm probably gonna just try ringing a few that I like the look of, but if anyone has any better ideas/leads please let me know! Cheers!

[snook]

If this was a film on a larger scale, this would be the job of the Location Manager. Since that probably falls to you, you have to research it yourself. Decide first what kind of bar you need (the interior and exterior need to be appropriate for the proposed film, assuming there are exterior shots), and then do the legwork - get out there and check a few out for yourself.

If you find one that fits the bill, speak to the manager and explain what you need - to film inside, out of hours, and maybe outside too, for exterior shots. You might have to put up a few signs, posters, etc., to suit the storyline, or move some furniture round, or clear it away, or whatever, and who knows, there may be a few breakages to deal with (I'm just guessing there might be a fight scene, or some disturbance, or accidental breakages while filming). Point all this out so he doesn't back out once you turn up and prepare to start filming. Also clarify if you'll be charged for using his premises, and if so get it in writing so there's no misunderstanding later.

Enjoy! Filming can be great fun, don't take your stuff too seriously or it can get in the way of itself.

Oh, and if you think you'll have to clear an area outside for filming exterior scenes, speak to the local police and get permission from someone in authority (written), again so that there's no comeback when you cordon off a small area.