The film was shot almost entirely in Los Angeles, although the action takes place in the grim New York of the Great Depression era of the 1930s. This dark alternate version of Spider-Man follows private detective Ben Reilly, played by Nicolas Cage, as well as Li Jun Li as nightclub singer Cat and Lormon Morris as freelance journalist Robbie. The series offers a unique viewing experience with two available visual formats: a stylized black-and-white mode reminiscent of classic noir, and a full-color version as originally shot. The production extensively used historic Los Angeles buildings and famous studio lots to recreate the atmosphere of Depression-era Manhattan, including locations from Warner Bros. Studios in Burbank to Universal Studios Hollywood, as well as numerous iconic buildings in downtown Los Angeles that provided an authentic early 20th-century architectural backdrop.

Filming Locations:

The Prince Restaurant

In the Movie

Scene where uses one of the first real locations in the series — a period-appropriate bar or lounge that fits well into the noir atmosphere of the 1930s. The classic interior required almost no additional dressing to convey the Great Depression-era aesthetic.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at a long-running restaurant and lounge in Los Angeles' Koreatown, known for its old-fashioned cinematic interior and late-night atmosphere. The venue has gained notable pop culture popularity through projects like Mad Men and New Girl. The vintage decor and dim lighting make it a natural choice for filming historical scenes.

Warner Bros. Studio Backlot - New York Street

In the Movie

Scene where shows the main New York street with Millie's Diner and the private detective B. Reilly's building, which serves as the central point of the entire series in grim Depression-era Manhattan. Many exterior street scenes were filmed here throughout the season.

In Reality

The scene was filmed on the backlot of Warner Bros. Studios in Burbank, a massive filming location with several street sets recreating different city neighborhoods. The New York Street set has been used for decades in film and television, including notable scenes from 'The Mask' and 'Minority Report'. It provides a convincing period urban backdrop without leaving Southern California.

Immanuel Presbyterian Church

In the Movie

Scene where shows Ben reading the news on the steps in the first episode 'Step Into My Office'. The church's magnificent exterior steps created a convincing New York-style urban backdrop for a quiet but important moment early in the series.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at a historic Presbyterian church in Los Angeles' Koreatown, notable for its expressive architectural details, including a wide staircase at the entrance. Thanks to its solid facade and period-appropriate look, the church is often chosen for filming and easily fits into early 20th-century imagery.