A magical story about growing up, imagination, and finding joy in life was filmed against the backdrop of New York's picturesque locations. The city became an integral part of the narrative, reflecting both everyday life and the magic hidden behind familiar streets and buildings. One of the locations was the cozy Brooklyn Heights Deli in Brooklyn. This place highlights the ordinariness of the main characters' lives as they begin to discover the world of imaginary friends. Another cozy location was the Ole & Steen bakery on 6th Avenue, Manhattan. An important element of the film is the famous Wonder Wheel at Coney Island. The amusement park atmosphere perfectly conveys the spirit of adventure and fantasy that underlies the plot. These and other locations help create the atmosphere in which the story of friendship, imagination, and the importance of staying connected to childhood unfolds.
 

Filming Locations:

Grocery Store

In the Movie

The scene where Bea goes into a grocery store near her house at night. 12-year-old Bea is going through a difficult period in her life. After her mother's death, her father is hospitalized with a serious heart condition, and the girl is forced to move in with her grandmother in New York. Despite her young age, Bea has to grow up quickly and face serious life challenges. One evening, the girl goes out to the grocery store, after which she unexpectedly discovers the ability to see imaginary friends — strange creatures that were created by children but have been forgotten over time.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at the Brooklyn Heights Deli grocery store. This is a small deli popular among locals. You can buy fresh produce, sandwiches, and drinks here. The store is known for its relaxed atmosphere and accessibility, making it a typical place for quick shopping in the Brooklyn Heights area. It is the perfect location for the scene where Bea, left home alone in the evening, goes out for groceries. The store conveys a sense of everyday life and calm, contrasting with the magical events that occur later.

Abandoned Amusement Park

In the Movie

The scene where Calvin takes Bea to an abandoned amusement park where forgotten imaginary friends live. Bea and Calvin both possess the rare ability to see imaginary friends. Calvin has lived with this gift for a long time and introduces the girl to a whole world of forgotten creatures: he becomes Bea's guide to this world, showing her the abandoned amusement park at Coney Island where imaginary friends live like in a "retirement home." Among them are the blue monster Blue, the butterfly Blossom, and other vivid characters who suffer from loneliness and oblivion. Calvin helps Bea understand that these creatures can only be brought back to life through the memories of their creators — adults who once imagined them.

In Reality

The scene was filmed near the Wonder Wheel in Luna Park at Coney Island. This iconic Ferris wheel stands 46 meters tall. It was built in 1920 and has since become one of the most recognizable symbols of New York, as well as a symbol of an entire era of entertainment and the American dream. The choice of this location adds special meaning to the plot: Coney Island, with its rich history and atmosphere of a bygone era, is perfect for a story about forgotten imaginary friends. The abandoned amusement park, like the aging Ferris wheel, reminds of former glory and lost dreams.

Bakery

In the Movie

The scene where Blue, Bea, and Calvin come to a bakery and see the man who created Blue. The main characters begin actively searching for ways for adults to remember their old friends, using various objects and places associated with childhood. Blue, one of the brightest and most noticeable imaginary friends, joins Bea and Calvin in their mission. Together they travel around the city, trying to reunite imaginary friends with their creators, and at some point they find Blue's creator.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at the Ole & Steen bakery in New York. This is a Danish bakery known for its wide selection of authentic Danish pastries, cakes, breads, and savory dishes like sandwiches. There are several branches in New York, including one on 6th Avenue and 40th Street, as well as in the Union Square area. The filmmakers may have included this bakery in the film because of its recognizability and popularity in the city: this chain is well-known in New York, has a convenient location, and a pleasant atmosphere.