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Filmmakers Forced to Improvise Kebab Van Scene for Oxford-Set Movie
1 Aug
Summary
- Filmmakers couldn't get rights to use real kebab van, had to create fake one
- Ended up using real kebab van owner to train actor playing the fake owner
- Unique Oxford tradition of late-night kebab vans featured in Netflix film
In the Netflix film "My Oxford Year," which premiered on August 1, 2025, graduate student Anna and English professor Jamie fall in love against the backdrop of Oxford University. The film aims to capture the sights, sounds, and traditions of the historic city, including a crucial Oxford ritual - visiting a kebab van late at night.
However, the filmmakers faced an unexpected challenge in recreating this scene. The script originally called for the van to be "Hassan's," a well-known local establishment. But the production team couldn't track down the owner to get the rights, so they had to change the name to "Dimitri's."
When the crew arrived in Oxford to film, the only van available was Hassan's. Unable to use the real name, they had the art department create a fake "Dimitri's" logo to put on Hassan's van. They even had to use Hassan himself to train the actor playing the fake owner. It was a convoluted solution, but one that allowed them to authentically capture the essence of this beloved Oxford tradition.
Despite the hassle, the kebab van scene remains an integral part of the film, showcasing the unique character of the city and the quirks of the production process.
