Netflix’s conspiracy thriller The Madness debuted on November 28, 2024. Created by Stephen Belber, the series stars Colman Domingo as Muncie Daniels, a media pundit whose life takes a dramatic turn after he witnesses a murder in the woods of the Poconos, while on sabbatical.
Although the series is set in the Poconos, much of the filming took place in Toronto, Ontario, in Canada. Toronto’s diverse locations and advanced film production infrastructure made it an ideal stand-in for various settings in the show.
The city's parks and forests were transformed into the remote Poconos woods, capturing the essence of the secluded area, which is pivotal to the storyline. The production also made use of other cities across North America, to create the distinctive backdrop needed for the show.
Every major location where The Madness was filmed
Parkwood Estate, Oshawa, Ontario
Parkwood Estate in Oshawa, Ontario, was used to depict scenes in the series requiring luxurious and grand settings. With its elegant Beaux-Arts architecture and sprawling gardens, the estate served as the location for key moments involving powerful characters.
Its timeless design and versatile spaces have made it a favorite filming location among filmmakers. The gardens, in particular, were used for reflective moments in the story, showcasing Daniels’ internal struggles as he devises plans to uncover the truth.
Greater Toronto Area, Ontario
The production team utilized various locations in the Greater Toronto Area to replicate urban and suburban environments featured in the series. Toronto’s adaptability allowed it to represent everything, from media offices to residential neighborhoods.
Several significant scenes, including tense confrontations and moments of media scrutiny, were filmed in the city’s downtown area, which was chosen for its modern infrastructure and film-friendly policies.
Toronto’s parks and forests
To replicate the Poconos woods, where the story begins, the production team filmed in Toronto’s parks and forests. These natural areas were essential in capturing the suspense and isolation surrounding Daniels after he witnesses the murder.
The densely wooded gardens and quiet surroundings provided an ideal backdrop for the character’s desperate attempts to evade his pursuers and unravel the conspiracy.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Parts of The Madness were filmed in Philadelphia, to lend authenticity to the show’s narrative. The city’s historic streets and recognizable skyline were used in flashbacks and legal sequences, adding depth to the storyline. Philadelphia’s architecture helped ground the series in a realistic setting.
New York City, New York
New York City was chosen as a location for some of the most intense moments in the series, as some key portions were seemingly filmed in and around Times Square.
The city’s urban chaos and towering skyscrapers provided a dramatic backdrop for critical confrontations between Daniels and the key figures behind the conspiracy. These climactic scenes utilized New York’s reputation as a hub of power and influence, amplifying the tension and stakes of the narrative.
More about The Madness
The Madness follows Muncie Daniels, a media pundit who becomes a witness to a violent crime while on a retreat in the Poconos woods. The event puts him at the center of a conspiracy, forcing him to flee and navigate dangerous situations as he tries to clear his name. At the same time, Daniels must reconnect with his estranged family and reassess his principles in the face of adversity.
The Madness explores complex themes like trust, redemption, and moral compromise. It also highlights the dynamics of family relationships, adding emotional depth to the suspense-driven plot.
With its intricate storytelling and filming locations, The Madness delivers a tale of survival and resilience, set against a visually engaging and immersive backdrop. The blend of action, drama, and intrigue ensures viewers remain captivated throughout the series.
Read More: The Madness season 1: Release date, cast, plot, and everything you need to know