Ludwig is back in the second chapter of the acclaimed mystery drama; master puzzle-setter John “Ludwig” Taylor (David Mitchell) is now serving as a Crime Scene Consultant, called in to untangle the most ‘impossible’ of crimes. But the shadow of his missing brother, James, still looms large. Bound by official protocol, Ludwig is barred from using police resources to pursue the one mystery that truly hunts him. Set in Cambridge, with select London locations adding to its crisp, atmospheric charm, the new series promises a blend of intellect, intrigue and unease.

Susanna White’s Prima Facie, starring Academy Award winner Cynthia Erivo, is set to begin filming this autumn. Erivo steps into the role made famous by Jodie Comer on both the West End and Broadway, a brilliant and unflinching British defence barrister who dominated the brutal world of London’s courtrooms. Fierce in her defence of men accused of sexual assault, she’s a rising star on the fast track to legal legend, but when her own being shifts, the advocate becomes the accused, she’s forced to confront the very system she once mastered.

Filming will take place primarily at Story Works Studios, with select scenes shot across London. Prima Facie marks the first independent feature to be filmed at the newly opened studio. Story Works featured at the inaugural Film London Studios and Facilities Showcase earlier this year. We know that many independent producers have traditionally thought they couldn’t necessarily afford or get access to bigger studios, kit, costumes and facilities, but these possibilities are open to filmmakers, especially in light of the Enhanced Audio-Visual Expenditure Credit. Story Works Studios opening its doors to independent film projects is a fantastic example of this.

As the days are growing shorter and the chill of autumn sets in, October is ushering a fresh wave of screen releases that put London on top. From haunting tales to high-stakes political intrigue, whether you’re heading to the cinema or staying cosy indoors, here’s what to watch this month.

Directed by Harrison Dickinson and starring Frank Dillane as Mike, Urchin journeys with a man sleeping rough on the streets of London, trapped in a chaotic cycle born from impulsivity and addiction. Charismatic and intelligent but self-destructive, Mike’s world continues to unravel when his substance abuse culminates in sudden acts of violence, leading to his subsequent arrest. Filmed around East London, where Dickinson himself grew up, the production draws both practical authenticity and emotional depth from its setting. Urchin is in cinemas now.

On another note, The Diplomat returns for its highly anticipated third season! Starting just moments after the explosive Season 2 finale, this new chapter finds Kate Wyler (Keri Russell), Hal Wyler (Rufus Sewell), and Vice President Grace Penn (Allison Janney) reeling from the sudden death of President Rayburn (Michael McKean) and Grace’s sudden ascension to Commander in Chief. Striking in political tension and international intrigue, the series once again makes use of real-world London landmarks, including the U.S. Embassy at Nine Elms Lanes for establishing shots and Westminster’s historic Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office – providing the perfect backdrop for several scenes. Catch The Diplomat Season 3, from 16 October on Netflix.