Emma Thompson Reveals Filming Action Scenes on Down Cemetery Road and Enjoying Half an Ale Between Takes
Apple TV is set to premiere a new adaptation of Mick Herron’s novel, Down Cemetery Road, on October 29, 2025. The series features acclaimed actors Emma Thompson and Ruth Wilson in lead roles. It follows Sarah Trafford, played by Wilson, who becomes deeply invested in discovering the fate of a young girl who vanished after an explosion in a tranquil Oxford suburb.
Emma Thompson’s Action-Packed Role
Emma Thompson portrays private investigator Zoë Boehm in the series. She expressed that this role offered her more action than she initially expected. Writing for Radio Times, Thompson shared her insights on the intense sequences they filmed.
Filming Challenges and Enjoyment
Thompson revealed that the eight-month shooting period was filled with unexpected challenges. Despite acknowledging the potential recklessness of starting an action-heavy role at age 66, she embraced the experience. “We barrelled up and down the country with abandon,” she recounted, noting the physical demands of running, hiding, and executing fight scenes.
- Emma Thompson as Zoë Boehm
- Ruth Wilson as Sarah Trafford
Locational Highlights
The filming took place across various locations, with one standout site being Polperro in Cornwall. Thompson fondly described the area, highlighting its natural beauty and excellent local pub, The Blue Peter. The pub is known for its seafood and a local ale called Tribute.
Relaxation Amidst Filming
While Thompson typically refrains from drinking during shoots, she admitted to enjoying a “cheeky half” of Tribute ale in between scenes there. She humorously suggested that this might have contributed to a “teeny bit more cheerful” demeanor in her character, Zoë.
As excitement builds for Down Cemetery Road, fans can look forward to witnessing Thompson and Wilson’s captivating performances when the series drops on Apple TV+. The combination of intense action sequences and compelling storytelling is sure to engage viewers.
