Filming Begins for Pharrell Williams-Inspired Musical in Virginia Beach

Filming for the highly anticipated musically themed film inspired by Pharrell Williams’ childhood in Virginia Beach has officially kicked off at the iconic Virginia Beach Oceanfront. The City of Virginia Beach has announced that there will be intermittent closures of the Boardwalk and certain beach areas to accommodate the filming, which is part of the “Untitled Pharrell Williams and Michel Gondry Project.”

The movie, set in 1977 Virginia Beach, is a coming-of-age musical that draws inspiration from Williams’ upbringing in the city’s Atlantis Apartments. Renowned director Michel Gondry, known for his work on “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind,” is at the helm of the project, with actor Kelvin Harrison Jr. taking on the lead role.

“We’re thrilled that the project is here, spending millions, hiring our Virginia workers, and that the musical itself is going to put such a large spotlight on Virginia Beach, Pharrell’s treasured hometown,” a spokesperson for the Virginia Film Office expressed in an email to 13News Now.

The filming has caused some temporary closures in the area, including parts of the Boardwalk and beach, but the bike path will remain open for visitors. The production is expected to bring a significant economic boost to the city and showcase Virginia Beach on a global scale.

Fans and onlookers can catch a glimpse of the action by checking out the set photos that have been shared online, giving a sneak peek into the world being created for this exciting new film.