Local Mexican press gathered today to meet producer Michael G. Wilson and Mexican actress Stephanie Sigman at the Four Seasons Hotel, after the principal cast and crew for SPECTRE arrived in Mexico City this week. EON Productions arranged the press conference to clarify their relationship with the Mexican government and other investors in the film, shooting down rumours that anything like "bribery" was taking place.
Wilson instead informed the media that EON had been put in touch with Mexican investors keen to promote tourism. "In this particular case, we have private companies who have come together as a joint venture to support tourism in this country." Wilson added that it was their policy not to disclose the amount invested, but emphasised that it was not public money. Bond movies are not "political", but rather, "entertainment", said Wilson.
The Mexican government, as everywhere the 007 production has gone, have been influential in safeguarding filming locations, and securing local support when filming disrupts routine. At no point, Wilson commented, did the Mexican authorities have creative influence. Addressing the rumour that Sigman was cast at the behest of the authorities, the producer suggested that they had long been looking to cast a Mexican actress, for the role required it.
Above: Spectre will shoot at the plaza de la Constitución (pictured) and Plaza Tolsa this month.
Plaza Tolsa was confirmed as a filming location as it will be closed between 21st and 24th March. Shooting then moves to The Zocalo (plaza de la Constitución) between 25th and 31st March. Sigman will shoot her first scenes this weekend, having met her 007, Daniel Craig, two weeks ago. "I feel anxious and excited [it] will be an amazing experience," she said.
An official statement in English on the events of the day is expected to be forthcoming.
