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The owner of a London-based film studio has shared what Hollywood’s stars are like behind the scenes (Image: Getty)
A British film studio owner has lifted the lid on what it’s like to work with movie legends such as Anthony Hopkins, Renee Zellweger and Benedict Cumberbatch.
The world of cinema is often seen as glamorous and untouchable, but for Frank Khalid OBE, it’s a daily reality. The owner of one of Britain’s most environmentally conscious film studios, Khalid offers a unique glimpse into his interactions with some of Hollywood’s most revered figures.
Khalid’s studio, situated in West London, has played host to numerous acclaimed productions, including popular TV series and blockbuster films. With a portfolio that boasts names like Killing Eve, Ted Lasso, and Bridget Jones’s Baby, Khalid has become accustomed to the presence of top-tier talent on his sets.
Frank is the owner of West London Film Studios (Image: Supplied)
“Anthony Hopkins was a bit of a joker,” said the owner of West London Film Studios Parkside. “One day, he sneaked behind my receptionist and scared her by making the noises from his character in ‘The Silence of the Lambs’.”
Speaking about the Bridget Jones star, he said: “Renee Zellweger has such a big heart.
Among the illustrious names, Anthony Hopkins stands out not just for his acting prowess but also for his playful nature. Khalid recalls an amusing incident involving the legendary actor. “Anthony Hopkins was quite the prankster,” Khalid shares. “He once crept up behind my receptionist and gave her quite a scare by mimicking the chilling noises of his character from ‘The Silence of the Lambs.'”
Renee Zellweger, known for her role in the Bridget Jones series, left a different kind of impression. Khalid fondly remembers her kindness and humility. “Renee has a remarkably big heart,” he notes. “After filming one day, she noticed the canteen was a bit messy after everyone had left. Without hesitation, she pitched in to help our staff clean it up.”
The latest site has been built with sustainability at its core and Frank spent a whopping £30m on his state-of-the art eco-focused production site.
It features a substation that contains 10 engines and can create up to three megawatts of power. Alongside the power plant is a one megawatt battery backup system, so the studio is protected from blackouts and energy spikes at all times.
West London Film Studios opened its eco-friendly site in 2024 (Image: Frank Khalid)
“Benedict Cumberbatch loves how we’re the greenest studio in the UK,” Frank added, “and Idris Elba told me that he was really impressed that we source our own power.”
Many actors who have filmed at the impressive studio have scored awards – including coveted Oscars.
He said: “It’s an amazing feeling having [these big names] film at our studio. I’m hoping that we can attract Tom Cruise and Leonardo DiCaprio in the future.
“I think it’s only a matter of time.”
Frank is also angling for Marvel to snap up his studio after they expressed interest a few years ago. But right now, he’s focusing on being the leading production company with an eco-friendly approach.
He said: “I built this from scratch but my background is actually in cash and carry, restaurants and wedding halls.
“I bought the building as an investment and tried to change it into a hospitality venue – but the council refused and wanted it kept as a film studio. I realised that I had an opportunity to create something new that the industry needs.
“We left a big part of the land as green landscaping; wild plants, greenery, open space – because it all matters.”
Frank recently featured on BBC News London, highlighting West London Film Studio’s commitment to a greener UK film and television industry.
