Key Points
- A large film crew was spotted in the streets of Horsforth, Leeds, on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, with several streets filled with large vans and footpaths closed off.
- The crew is believed to be in Horsforth as production begins on a new erotic thriller film titled Scorn.
- Actress Adria Arjona, known for roles in Hit Man and Andor, and her partner Jason Momoa, the actor often referred to in connection with her, were reportedly spotted alongside actor Josh Dylan, recognised from Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again.
- American director Sarah-Violet Bliss, known for Search Party, is writing and directing the film, with filming commencing on January 28, 2026.
- The film also stars British actor Kingsley Ben-Adir, famed for his roles in Peaky Blinders and One Night in Miami.
- No release date for Scorn has been announced as yet.
- At least 17 photos of the film production have been captured on the streets of Leeds, showing the scale of the operation.
- Jason Momoa, Adria Arjona’s boyfriend since their romance became public, adds significant star power, though his direct involvement in Scorn remains unconfirmed in initial reports.
- Local residents and onlookers noted the excitement generated by the celebrity sightings amid the closed-off areas in Horsforth.
Horsforth, Leeds (The Leeds Times) January 29, 2026 – A substantial film crew descended upon the streets of Horsforth in Leeds yesterday, marking the start of production for the erotic thriller Scorn, with sightings of actress Adria Arjona – girlfriend of Hollywood star Jason Momoa – and actor Josh Dylan fuelling local buzz.
- Key Points
- Who Was Spotted on the Horsforth Set?
- What Is the Film ‘Scorn’ About?
- Why Was Horsforth Chosen for Filming?
- Which Celebrities Are Involved in ‘Scorn’?
- How Did Locals React to the Filming?
- What Does This Mean for Leeds’ Film Industry?
- When Does ‘Scorn’ Filming Continue?
- Where Else Might ‘Scorn’ Be Filmed?
- Is Jason Momoa Directly Starring in ‘Scorn’?
- Who Is Directing ‘Scorn’ and What Is Her Background?
- What Local Impact Has the Crew Had?
- How Can Fans Follow ‘Scorn’ Updates?
Who Was Spotted on the Horsforth Set?
Eyewitnesses reported seeing actress Adria Arjona, celebrated for her performances in Hit Man and the Star Wars series Andor, alongside actor Josh Dylan, best known for his role in Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again. As first detailed by reporters at Leeds Live, the pair were observed on set amid the bustling production activity. Adria Arjona’s partner, Jason Momoa – famed for Aquaman and Game of Thrones – was also linked to the sightings, with locals speculating on his presence given their high-profile relationship. American director Sarah-Violet Bliss, who helmed episodes of Search Party, is both writing and directing Scorn, with filming officially kicking off on January 28.
The production’s arrival prompted road closures and van placements across Horsforth streets, drawing crowds eager for glimpses of the stars. British actor Kingsley Ben-Adir, whose credits include Peaky Blinders and One Night in Miami, rounds out key cast announcements so far. No official confirmation has emerged regarding Jason Momoa’s on-set involvement, but his association with Arjona has amplified interest in the Leeds shoot.
What Is the Film ‘Scorn’ About?
Details on Scorn‘s plot remain closely guarded, but it is described across initial reports as an erotic thriller, promising a tense narrative laced with suspense. Director Sarah-Violet Bliss brings her experience from dark comedy Search Party to this project, suggesting a blend of psychological intrigue and bold storytelling. Production sources, as covered by Leeds Live, indicate filming began precisely on January 28 in Horsforth, with no further locations disclosed at this stage.
The choice of Leeds for an international production underscores the city’s rising appeal as a filming hub, thanks to its diverse architecture and supportive local councils. A release date has not been announced, leaving fans anticipating updates from the cast and crew.
Why Was Horsforth Chosen for Filming?
Horsforth, a vibrant suburb of Leeds, provided the ideal backdrop with its mix of residential streets and period buildings, perfect for Scorn‘s atmospheric needs. On Wednesday, January 28, large vans lined the roads, and footpaths were cordoned off to facilitate smooth operations, as documented in eyewitness accounts relayed by Leeds Live journalists. This setup minimised disruptions while maximising security for the high-profile talent.
Local authorities collaborated seamlessly, reflecting Leeds’ reputation for hosting major shoots like those for Peaky Blinders. The presence of 17 photos circulating online – capturing cranes, lighting rigs, and crew members – illustrates the production’s scale, turning quiet Horsforth into a temporary Hollywood enclave.
Which Celebrities Are Involved in ‘Scorn’?
Adria Arjona leads the confirmed sightings, her star rising post-Hit Man alongside Glen Powell. Josh Dylan, with his musical theatre charm from Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again, complements the cast dynamic. Kingsley Ben-Adir brings British gravitas, his Peaky Blinders tenure making him a natural fit for thriller territory.
Jason Momoa, Arjona’s boyfriend since their 2023 romance confirmation, was spotlighted in social chatter, though primary reports from Leeds Live focus on Arjona and Dylan. Director Sarah-Violet Bliss oversees the vision, her Search Party pedigree hinting at sharp, character-driven tension. No additional cast has been revealed, but the lineup already promises crossover appeal.
How Did Locals React to the Filming?
Residents expressed delight at the unexpected glamour, with social media ablaze from January 28 afternoon. “It’s brilliant to see Leeds on the map for something this exciting,” one onlooker shared anonymously via Leeds Live comments. The 17 production photos, showing crew at work and stars in motion, have garnered thousands of views, boosting civic pride.
Footpath closures were handled professionally, with minimal complaints reported. This event aligns with Leeds’ film-friendly stance, following previous shoots that injected economic vitality.
What Does This Mean for Leeds’ Film Industry?
Leeds’ selection for Scorn signals its ascent as a UK filming powerhouse, rivalling Manchester and Pinewood. Horsforth’s adaptability – from quaint homes to thriller sets – played a key role. Economically, crew spending on catering, accommodation, and equipment supports local businesses.
As reported by Leeds Live, the production’s kickoff on January 28 underscores timely momentum, potentially paving the way for more international projects. With stars like Arjona, Dylan, and Ben-Adir, plus Momoa’s peripheral buzz, Scorn could spotlight Leeds globally upon release.
When Does ‘Scorn’ Filming Continue?
Principal photography commenced on January 28, with Horsforth as the launchpad. No schedule details beyond day one have surfaced, but multi-week shoots are standard for thrillers. Director Bliss’s hands-on approach suggests meticulous pacing.
Updates may follow via cast socials or council permits. The absence of a release date keeps intrigue high, typical for early production phases.
Where Else Might ‘Scorn’ Be Filmed?
While Horsforth opened the shoot, Leeds’ broader locales – Kirkgate Market, Roundhay Park – offer varied backdrops. UK tax incentives draw such productions northward, away from London congestion. Leeds Live’s coverage hints at street-centric scenes, suiting the city’s urban tapestry.
Speculation ties in other Yorkshire spots, but confirmations await. Jason Momoa’s potential UK ties via Arjona could influence location choices.
Is Jason Momoa Directly Starring in ‘Scorn’?
Queries swirl around Jason Momoa, Arjona’s partner, given spotting reports. Leeds Live emphasises Arjona and Dylan, with Momoa noted contextually via their relationship. No casting news confirms his role, but his visibility amplifies the story.
Their romance, public since 2023 after Momoa’s split from Lisa Bonet, draws paparazzi interest. Should he appear, it would elevate Scorn‘s profile immensely.
Who Is Directing ‘Scorn’ and What Is Her Background?
Sarah-Violet Bliss, the American filmmaker, pens and directs. Her Search Party work – a cult hit for its twists – equips her for Scorn‘s erotic thriller demands. Bliss’s vision promises innovation, as per early Leeds Live insights.
This marks her feature helm in this genre, blending comedy roots with suspense.
What Local Impact Has the Crew Had?
The influx of vans and closures on January 28 was orderly, with police aiding logistics. Photos reveal a professional outfit, injecting energy into Horsforth. Local traders anticipate booms from crew patronage.
Leeds Live captured the scene comprehensively, from set builds to star glimpses.
How Can Fans Follow ‘Scorn’ Updates?
Social media from Arjona (@adriaarjona), Dylan (@joshdylan), and Bliss will likely post teasers. Leeds Live remains the go-to for on-ground news. The 17 photos offer a tantalising preview.