Creative Wales and Ffilm Cymru are among the backers of the film, based on Helen Macdonald’s memoir

Principal photography started in Wales yesterday (7 November) on H is for Hawk, starring Claire Foy and Brendan Gleeson. Locations will also include Cambridge.

The film has been adapted by Emma Donoghue and director Philippa Lowthorpe from Helen Macdonald’s memoir of the same name.

After losing her beloved father, Helen finds herself saved by an unlikely friendship with a stubborn hawk named Mabel. Through the relationship with the wild bird, Helen rediscovers the beauty of life.

The film is produced by Plan B Entertainment in association with Good Gate Media. Film4 developed the project alongside Plan B and Peephole Productions, and will executive produce and co-finance.

Other executive producers include Saturnia, Kliff Capital Entertainment, Calculus Media, City Hill Arts, Desmar, Protagonist Pictures, Peephole Productions, Lena Headey and Tina Thor, Foy and Macdonald.

Author Madconald said: “I’m deeply moved by the care and love and extraordinary creative expertise of everyone involved in this project. They are making something truly magical, and I am so excited to see it spread its wings, take to the air and soar.”

Protagonist Pictures’ CCO George Hamilton added: “We are simply thrilled to have cameras rolling on this beautiful and enduring story of love, loss and healing. This is a film that everyone can genuinely relate to. Under Philippa’s stewardship, Claire and Brendan have begun to bring these brave and vulnerable characters to life.”

“Good Gate Media are honoured to join this wonderful project and help bring it to life,” remarked Good Gate Media CEO, John Giwa-Amu. “The incredible, extensive, meticulous work done by Plan B, Protagonist Pictures, Film4 and Philippa Lowthorpe has been a joy to become a part of, alongside funders Creative Wales, Ffilm Cymru and Calculus Media.”