Liam Neeson Films ‘The Mongoose’ in Victoria, Praises Local Crew

BACCHUS MARSH, Australia — Hollywood actor Liam Neeson has returned to Victoria to film his latest thriller, The Mongoose, with production taking place in the regional town of Bacchus Marsh. The film marks Neeson’s third project in Victoria in four years, and is expected to inject over $19 million into the local economy.

The production, which began earlier this month, is set to transform Bacchus Marsh into various locations resembling U.S. states including Kentucky, Arkansas, and Texas. The film follows Neeson’s character, Ryan ‘Fang’ Flanagan, a war hero unjustly accused of a crime, who finds himself in a high-speed televised chase across America.

Neeson, 72, expressed his admiration for the Australian film crews during a media event at Bacchus Marsh Aerodrome. ‘It sounds so cliché, but the people, the crews are one of the best,’ he said. He is joined by producers Al Corley and Bart Roseblatt, who noted the film’s extensive action sequences necessitating highway closures for filming.

Next week, part of the Calder Freeway near Castlemaine will be closed for a day to accommodate filming of a car chase scene. ‘The entire movie is a chase from beginning to end,’ said Corley. ‘We only need one and a half kilometers, which minimizes our inconvenience to the public.’

The Victorian government highlighted the financial impact of the project, with an estimated $2 million earmarked for regional communities. Neeson previously filmed Ice Road 2: Road to the Sky and Blacklight in the state, showcasing Victoria’s growing status as an international film destination.

Corley emphasized the professionalism and talent of the Victorian crew, stating, ‘The Australian crews are not only technically savvy but they rate right up with the Hollywood crews. They have a hearty go get ’em attitude, which is really important when shooting a film.’

Despite their expertise, the filmmakers have faced challenges, including unpredictable weather conditions. Roseblatt shared, ‘We had a flash flood and storm come through last week, which blew the entire set away. If you don’t like the weather here in Victoria, just wait five minutes.’

Filming is scheduled to continue until February of next year, with the movie expected to premiere on Amazon at the end of 2026. Colin Brooks, Victoria’s Minister for Creative Industries, welcomed the film’s positive impact on the local screen sector, while Neeson remains impressed by the local talent.

Directed by Mark Vanselow, The Mongoose is backed by VicScreen’s Victorian Screen Rebate and the Australian government’s Location Offset. As production moves forward, Bacchus Marsh continues to solidify its reputation as a prime location for international films.