[News] Studio neighbours get sneak peak at 47 Ronin set

SHEPPERTON Studios bosses invited residents for an exclusive look at the set of 47 Ronin.



Around 400 people who live on the studios estate took up the invitation for four people from each household to visit the private sets, although the star himself is believed to have been filming abroad at the time.

Mobile phones were confiscated on arrival to prevent people publicising their secret visit and they had to sign confidentiality agreements.

A housewife who lives in Astleham Road said: "It was very interesting to see what goes on there.

"I went with my neighbour. "I have been before but it was good to see this set. It was very impressive, the set looked like a monk's palace or something like that."

Andrew Smith, group corporate affairs director for Shepperton Studios, said: "The studios are normally closed to the public, however, we were able to arrange this exclusive open day as a way to say thank you to our neighbours for having the production in the area and to help satisfy interest amongst the local community.

"Approximately 400 people joined us to view the results of the production's hard work, recreating 18th century Japan

with the construction of a castle, fortress, tournament arena and village on the Shepperton back lot and the feedback we had from our neighbours on the day was very positive." 47 Ronin is set in 18th century Japan, and stars Keanu Reeves as main character Kai.

The set for the film was granted planning permission by Spelthorne Council on Wednesday, April 27.

Production crews have until the end of October to complete filming.

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