The film was shot primarily in Nashville, Tennessee, and its surroundings, although the story takes place in Alexandria, Virginia. Based on Patricia Cornwell's bestselling novel series, this forensic crime drama follows Kay Scarpetta, the chief medical examiner, who investigates brutal murders across two timelines—the late 1990s and the present day. The series explores whether these killings are linked to a serial killer active in both eras. Nicole Kidman plays Scarpetta in the present, while Rosie McEwan portrays her younger self. The production extensively used Nashville's historic architecture, government buildings, and commercial spaces to convincingly depict Virginia locations. Jamie Lee Curtis and Bobby Cannavale round out the supporting cast.

Filming Locations:

Market Street Bridge (John Ross Bridge), Chattanooga

In the Film

The scene where opens 'Bridge of Time, Part One' and immediately sets the tone for the entire story: key wide shots of the bridge are shown to emphasize the connection between the series' two timelines. The bridge functions both as a real transition point and a symbolic boundary between eras, creating a clear and tense backdrop for the start of the plot.

In Reality

The scene was filmed in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and is a historic bridge opened in 1917. It spans the Tennessee River, and its concrete surface was once used for advertising. At the beginning of the first episode, the bridge appears prominently in the frame, playing the role of a location in Virginia, although it is actually located in a completely different state. Despite possible hints in the series, there is no clock on the bridge, but it is a well-known city landmark connecting downtown Chattanooga with the North Shore district.

Mount Olivet Cemetery, Nashville

In the Film

The scene where shows a cemetery scene, likely related to one of the murders or a personal moment for Scarpetta. The monumental tombstones and garden layout create a calm yet heavy atmosphere that suits death scenes and the medical examiner's reflections on the fragility of life.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at this historic garden-style cemetery in Nashville, founded in 1855 and modeled after the famous Mount Auburn Cemetery in Cambridge, Massachusetts, near Boston. Many notable Tennesseans are buried here, with winding paths, old trees, and intricate monuments throughout. The picturesque yet solemn appearance of this site made it a suitable substitute for a Virginia cemetery for the series' filming.

Tennessee State Capitol, Nashville

In the Film

The scene where shows Virginia state government buildings, with the Capitol standing in for official offices in Alexandria. The Greek Revival architecture and imposing interiors lend the scenes the necessary weight and sense of authority, which works well for state-level investigations and bureaucratic conversations involving Scarpetta.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at the Tennessee State Capitol building in Nashville, built in the mid-19th century in the Greek Revival style. Unlike many other capitol buildings, it has a central lantern instead of a dome. Inside are richly decorated House and Senate chambers with limestone carvings and historic murals. The building sits on Charlotte Hill and was designed by architect William Strickland, who, unusually, is buried within its walls.