Where Was Prisoners Filmed? backdrop
ThrillerDramaMystery

Where Was Prisoners Filmed?

2013
Denis Villeneuve
Added June 15, 2023
5 Locations

Dive into the haunting and intricate filming locations of the thriller 'Prisoners,' where tension builds in the atmospheric landscapes and gritty urban settings.

About Where Was Prisoners Filmed?

Prisoners is more than just a thriller; it’s a tense exploration of desperation and moral conflict, captured through the lens of bleak surroundings and compelling performances. Set against the haunting backdrop of Ontario, the film's locations underscore the chilling narrative.

From the quiet suburban streets of Burlington, which stand in as the uncertain world of the characters, to the eerie industrial locations in Hamilton, each site has been meticulously chosen to enhance the story's intensity. The stunning yet unsettling views of Niagara Falls serve to juxtapose the film’s darkness with moments of beauty, making viewers more acutely aware of the emotional stakes at play.

Fans of Prisoners will find that these locations have become special pilgrimage sites, offering tours that dive deeper into the film’s filming process and narrative inspirations. Discovering these places allows audiences to connect with the film on a personal level, understanding the moods and challenges faced by the characters.

Whether you're contemplating a journey to the atmospheric streets of Burlington or the majestic views of Niagara Falls, these real-world locations promise to enrich your appreciation of the hauntingly powerful film that is Prisoners.

Year Released

2013

Director

Denis Villeneuve

Filming Locations

5 locations

Behind the Scenes

Prisoners, directed by Denis Villeneuve, is a gripping thriller that delves into the harrowing tale of abduction and the subsequent moral dilemmas that unfold. Shot in the atmospheric settings of Ontario, Canada, the film masterfully utilizes its locations to amplify the suspense and emotional depth.

  • The film was predominantly shot in Burlington, Ontario, which provided a mix of urban and suburban landscapes.
  • Hugh Jackman and Jake Gyllenhaal delivered intense performances, often filmed in challenging weather conditions to maintain authenticity.
  • Villeneuve collaborated closely with cinematographer Roger Deakins to ensure that the visuals matched the film's dark and gritty tone.
  • The use of natural light in many scenes enhances the film's realism and intensifies the viewer's emotional experience.
  • Filming took place during the fall, which added a layer of bleakness and visual poignancy to the film's setting.

Travel Tips

  • Best time to visit most of these locations is during spring or fall for mild weather.

  • Consider booking accommodations in advance, especially during tourist season.

  • Guided tours are available that cover Burlington, Ontario, Canada, Grimsby, Ontario, Canada, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada in one day.

Filming Locations

Discover all 5 locations where Where Was Prisoners Filmed? was filmed

View Locations

Interactive Location Map

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Explore all 5 filming locations on the interactive map above. Click on markers for details.

Filming Locations

Map of Burlington, Ontario, Canada
1

Burlington, Ontario, Canada

The primary filming location where both suburban and outdoor scenes were shot, providing the backdrop for the film's eerie tension.

LAT 47.48160, LNG -79.24400
Directions
Map of Grimsby, Ontario, Canada
2

Grimsby, Ontario, Canada

This small town served as the fictitious setting for the harrowing kidnapping story, showcasing its quaint yet haunting streets.

LAT 43.24850, LNG -79.83740
Directions
Map of Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
3

Hamilton, Ontario, Canada

Used for various industrial and urban backdrops, Hamilton adds an atmospheric layer to the film's unsettling narrative.

LAT 43.73210, LNG -79.32090
Directions
Map of Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada
4

Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada

The breathtaking views of the falls contribute a dramatic contrast to the film's dark themes.

LAT 43.17770, LNG -79.24750
Directions
Map of St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada
5

St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada

This nearby city featured in several pivotal scenes, enhancing the film's depiction of desperation and mystery.

LAT 43.39990, LNG -80.52960
Directions

Book Accommodations

Stay near these iconic filming locations

Burlington Walking Tour
From $30
Partner
Niagara Falls Tour
$50$45
Partner
Booking.com - Hamilton Hotels
From $110/night

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Watch Where Was Prisoners Filmed?

Available on these streaming platforms

Share Your Experiences

Have you visited any of these filming locations? Share your stories and tips in the comments below!

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