The film was shot in a captivating blend of real locations and meticulously designed sets, primarily around Melbourne, Australia, despite the action supposedly taking place in the bustling American metropolis of Chicago. This production strategy leveraged the lower costs and generous tax incentives offered in Australia, with Melbourne's diverse suburbs cleverly portraying American neighborhoods. The narrative unfolds as a psychological thriller adapted from a popular novel, delving into themes of disappearance, family secrets, and the shattering of seemingly perfect lives. It explores complex relationships and hidden truths, often using stark contrasts between the public facades of its characters and their personal turmoil. The series masterfully builds tension, drawing viewers into a world where every action has far-reaching consequences.

Filming Locations:

Baháʼí House of Worship

In the Film

Scene where This scene uses this architectural marvel as an establishing shot to introduce the suburban town of Wilmette, Illinois, where the Irvine family resides. Its distinctive design helps set the geographical context for the family's home in the narrative.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at Baháʼí House of Worship

Irvine Family Home

In the Film

Scene where This scene shows this luxurious, large five-bedroom mansion as the primary residence of the Irvine family. Located on the Mornington Peninsula, it serves as a key home backdrop for much of the series' action and character interactions.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at Private residence in Red Hill South

Bishop Academy

In the Film

Scene where This scene presents the community center as Bishop Academy, the school attended by Marissa and Peter's son, Milo. It provides an institutional setting for the character's educational environment and related events in the narrative.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at Saltwater Community Centre

The Bean Sculpture

In the Film

Scene where The scene where Jenny strolls near this famous sculpture during the first episode of the series. This iconic landmark serves as a backdrop, placing the character in the bustling urban environment of Chicago and emphasizing its authenticity.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at Cloud Gate

Chicago Riverwalk at Clark Street Bridge

In the Film

Scene where In this scene, Jenny, played by Dakota Fanning, walks along the iconic Chicago Riverwalk, specifically near the Clark Street Bridge. This location is one of the few actually filmed in Chicago.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at Chicago Riverwalk, Clark Street Bridge

Kaminski Family Home

In the Film

Scene where This scene shows this impressive residence, known as Hawthorn House, as the Kaminski family home. Its unique architectural elements, including concrete 'shrouds' and a courtyard garden, are often visible throughout the series.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at Hawthorn House (Private Residence)

Yugen Dining Restaurant

In the Film

Scene where In this scene, the restaurant located beneath the Capitol Grand building in Melbourne is presented as a dining establishment in the first episode. Its distinctive dramatic design, high ceilings, and modern atmosphere stand out visually.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at Yugen Dining

Ms. Garcia's House

In the Film

Scene where The scene taking place at Ms. Garcia's house was filmed in one of the studios located on Wando Grove. This indicates it was an interior set rather than a location house, providing a controlled environment for filming the episode.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at Film Studio on Wando Grove

Press Conference Venue

In the Film

Scene where The press conference scene in the second episode was filmed here. Although the interior is authentic, the Chicago skyline, including the Wrigley Building, was added digitally to mimic the setting of Chicago's New Eastside neighborhood.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC)

LH Rooftop Restaurant

In the Film

Scene where The scene at the end of the second episode shows Peter talking on the phone at this rooftop restaurant. The setting provides a dynamic backdrop atop the LondonHouse Chicago hotel, offering views of the city skyline.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at LH Rooftop at LondonHouse Chicago