Film chief Tim set for Switch-On

Legendary film director Tim Burton has been announced as this year’s Lights Switch-On star.
Tim Burton's heading back to Blackpool - switching on the IlluminationsTim Burton's heading back to Blackpool - switching on the Illuminations
Tim Burton's heading back to Blackpool - switching on the Illuminations

The Hollywood star will make his latest trip to Blackpool on Friday, September 4 to complete the line up for iFest’s Switch On concert.

He’s been a regular in the resort in recent years, including spending two weeks here in May, filming a stunt for latest movie Miss Peregrine’s Home For Children.

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And back in 2012, he shot scenes for US band The Killers’ video to track Here With Me.

The Vamps to play at Motorpoint Arena, SheffieldThe Vamps to play at Motorpoint Arena, Sheffield
The Vamps to play at Motorpoint Arena, Sheffield

Tim’s even referred to himself as Blackpool Pleasure Beach’s biggest fan on a visit last summer, so he’s certain to be glad to be back in town for the resort’s biggest party night – flicking the Illuminations’ switch in front of a 20,000-strong crowd.

The Friday night pop concert at the Tower Festival Headland is this year being headlined by chart favourites The Vamps, with a full line-up already announced.

Coun Gillian Campbell, deputy leader of Blackpool Council, said: “Having one of the most famous film directors in the world turn on the Blackpool Illuminations is a major coup and shows the high regard the town is held in the hearts of our famous visitors.

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“Millions of people around the world have enjoyed the films Tim has directed including Edward Scissorhands, Batman and Planet of the Apes.

“We know he is a huge fan of Blackpool and we are delighted that he has agreed to switch the Illuminations on for us on the biggest night of Blackpool’s year.

“This is gearing up to be one of the best Switch-On events we have ever had.” Tim Burton headed the movie shoot in Blackpool this year for scenes in novel adaptation Miss Peregrine’s Home For Peculiar Children, which is due to be released early next year.

Hollywood A-lister, Samuel L Jackson, was among the cast who filmed in scenes on the Promenade and at Blackpool Tower.

The film will showcase Blackpool to a world-wide audience.

His past cinema successes include Alice in Wonderland, Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Sleepy Hollow and Edward Scissorhands.

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