Leighton Cox, the cinematographer behind the acclaimed FX series 'Welcome to Wrexham', has witnessed his hometown's remarkable transformation since the Hollywood duo of Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds took ownership of the local football club. Cox, a native of Wrexham, reflects on the town's journey, from a place where people were losing hope to a thriving community under the international spotlight. The series, he notes, has not only brought positive change to the team and the city but has also given the town a renewed sense of belief and possibility.
Cox's work on the show is characterized by his expertise in Steadicam operation, a specialty he has developed alongside his day job in documentary filmmaking. He employs a range of camera equipment, including gimbal systems like the Ronin 4D and Osmos, to capture the chaotic and emotional moments of the football matches. The episode "Do a Wrexham" stands out as a testament to the show's success, with Cox praising the collaboration between all departments, from cinematography to sound, that resulted in an emotional rollercoaster of an episode.
The cinematographer also discusses the trust-building process with the locals, including fans and business owners, which has allowed for more authentic and engaging interviews. Cox highlights the importance of the show in dispelling skepticism and fostering a sense of community, as evidenced by the positive feedback from fans and the town's residents. For tourists, Cox recommends exploring the town's football and community-related mural trail, engaging with locals, and immersing themselves in the town's rich history and culture.
Looking ahead, Cox expresses his enthusiasm for continuing his work on the series, which has kept him close to home and provided a fresh perspective on his hometown. With the show renewed for three seasons, Cox is eager to continue capturing the town's transformation and the impact it has on the community, offering a unique and captivating insight into the world of football and the power of media to bring about positive change.
