Match Point - Production

Production

The script was originally set in The Hamptons, a wealthy enclave in New York, but transferred to London when Allen found financing for the film there. The film was partly funded by BBC Films, which required that he make the film in the UK with largely local cast and crew. Allen explained that he is allowed "the same kind of creative liberal attitude that I'm used to" in London. He complained that the American studio system is strong again, and not interested in making small films, "They only want these $100 million pictures that make $500m." A further change was required when Kate Winslet, who had been supposed to play the part of Nola Rice, resigned a week before filming was scheduled to begin. Scarlett Johansson was offered the part, and accepted, but the character had to be re-written as an American. According to Allen, "It was not a problem...It took about an hour."

Filming took place in London in the summer of 2004 over a seven week schedule. Some of the city's landmarks, such as Tate Modern, Norman Foster's "Gherkin" building at 30 St Mary Axe, Richard Rogers' Lloyd's building, the Royal Opera House, the Palace of Westminster, Blackfriars Bridge, and Cambridge Circus form a backdrop to the film. The tennis club scenes were filmed at the Queen's Club. One of the University of Westminster's Marylebone campus lecture theatres was also used. UK-based graffiti artist Banksy's "girl with balloon" appears briefly in the film. Parliament View at Lambeth Bridge was used for interiors of Chris and Chloe's apartment.