Marks Tey Hall Essex location for British independent horror film

British-made The World We Knew is billed as stylish haunted house film, blending pitch black humour and creeping dread with macabre surrealism.

Shot on a micro-budget in the 16th Century Marks Tey Hall, the film stars Johann Myers (The Wheel of Time, Small Axe, Undergods), Struan Rodger (Kill List, The Enfield Haunting, Dr Who), and Finbar Lynch (Treadstone, Proof).

After a botched armed robbery a gang flee to a mysterious safehouse.

Johann Myers as Gordon and Finbar Lynch as Carpenter in an interior shot (Image: Powis Square Pictures)

Tormented by their past misdemeanours, mutual distrust and by things that go bump in the night, the men must confront the very edges of their sanity.

The film, which was independently financed, is the debut feature from co-directors WW Jones and Luke Skinner.

Featuring a soundtrack composed by cult French band The Limiñanas, the film Is set to be released on streaming platforms and DVD in the UK on March 20.

Producer Andy Orr said: “We felt very privileged to have access to such an historic location.

“Parts of Marks Tey Hall date back to the 16th Century and even though it was in a state of dereliction it was perfect for our purposes as a haunted hideout.”

Scriptwriter Kirk Lake added: “The house became an important character in its own right and we couldn’t have found anywhere else quite so atmospheric.

“Our make-up artist’s dog absolutely refused to enter the place.

“A few of the cast members were convinced the house was genuinely haunted.”