A thrilling science fiction adventure directed by Steven Spielberg transports viewers to the year 2045. The film is an adaptation of Ernest Cline's 2011 novel of the same name. The story unfolds in a grim future where people escape harsh reality by immersing themselves in a virtual world called the OASIS. Although the plot is set in Columbus, Ohio, most scenes were filmed in England, mainly in London and Birmingham. Many key episodes were shot on the bustling streets of the British capital. For example, the fight scene at the Ogakami corporation was filmed on Ropemaker Street in the very heart of the city. Also used for filming were Finsbury Street, Moor Lane, and Moorfields in the Islington area. Birmingham, with its unique architecture and historical character, provided an excellent backdrop for the dystopian world outside the OASIS. One of the key locations was the famous Jewellery Quarter, known for its historic buildings and industrial past atmosphere.

Filming Locations:

Wade's Home

In the Movie

The scene where we are transported to 2045. The protagonist, teenager Wade Watts, lives in an overcrowded and cluttered Columbus, in a slum area known as the Stacks. Making his way through trash-strewn streets, he passes by numerous screens, people in virtual reality headsets, and thick, endless smog.

In Reality

The scene was filmed on Livery Street, one of the oldest streets in Birmingham. Here you can see both brutalist architecture, such as the famous mural, and modern renovated office buildings. The street became part of Birmingham's urban structure in the late 19th century.

Office of Innovative Online Industries

In the Movie

The scene where Nolan Sorrento, CEO of Innovative Online Industries (IOI), leads teams of devoted geeks. They meticulously study pop culture of the 70s and 80s in search of the Easter egg hidden in the OASIS by James Halliday. Sorrento's subordinates methodically explore everything related to Halliday's past: his favorite movies, music, video games, and other cultural references.

In Reality

The scene was filmed in the building of Holland Park School, located in the eponymous area in London. Once considered a leading educational institution, it later faced criticism and was downgraded from 'outstanding' to 'inadequate'. Despite these difficulties, the school still plays an important role in the area's education system. The school features futuristic architecture with glass facades, clean lines, and modern high-tech interiors.

Headquarters of the 'Rebellion' Group

In the Movie

The scene where the 'Rebellion' gang gathers in their hideout on a rooftop among live plants and flowers. Surrounded by chaos, the rooftop garden becomes a rare island of tranquility for them. Here they discuss next steps and unite for a common goal: to find Halliday's Easter egg.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at 'The Works' — an innovative cultural center in the Eastside area of Birmingham. The project breathed new life into the former Typhoo tea factory building, transforming it into a vibrant space for various cultural events.