Fans of Harlan Coben's crime thrillers got the chance to immerse themselves once again when Missing You premiered on Netflix this New Year's Day. The series stars Rosalind Eleazar as Detective Kat Donovan, whose life unravels upon encountering her long-missing fiancé, Josh, portrayed by Ashley Walters, on a dating app. Rather than the original New York City setting from Coben's novel, the show is shot predominantly across the vibrant landscapes and urban scenes of northwest England, particularly Manchester and its surrounding areas.
Opening with suspense and intrigue, Missing You sees Kat grappling with the resurfacing of her lost fiancé, who vanished eleven years prior without explanation. This unexpected encounter reignites her investigation not only of Josh's disappearance but also of long-buried family secrets tied to her father’s murder. What's more, the viewers are treated to snippets of familiar UK locales, which meld seamlessly with the gripping storyline, delivering both nostalgia and excitement.
One of the standout locations is Turner Street, situated right in Manchester’s Northern Quarter. The show kicks off with visually engaging scenes depicting a festive street party. With its charming festoon lights, viewers are sure to recognize the lively atmosphere which can be appreciated at local hangouts like Ad Hoc and The Smithfield Social.
Kat's city-center flat is another noteworthy filming site. Located on Little Peter Street, within the historic Knott Mill, it boasts deep roots tied to the late Tony Wilson of Factory Records fame. Initially commissioned by Wilson, the loft’s unique industrial design remains iconic and captivates viewers who marvel at its charm intertwined with the drama of the series.
Meanwhile, the Askia Inn—portrayed by The Freemount pub—features prominently throughout Missing You. It serves as Kat's local watering hole and the backdrop for pivotal moments, including flashbacks to her engagement party with Josh. This authentic setting injects realism, allowing viewers to connect with Kat's emotional turmoil vividly.
The Manchester Art Gallery adds another layer of depth to the show, especially during tense scenes with the criminal mastermind Calligan, played by Harlan Coben regular James Nesbitt. The gallery, with its stunning artwork, sets the stage for intricately charged dialogues between characters.
Filmed throughout various locales, including both urban and rural areas, Missing You doesn’t shy away from captivating scenery. Notably, scenes at Pollen, located on the picturesque New Islington Marina, serve as important narrative points where Kat uncovers significant plot developments with Charlie, another key character.
The production team ventured out of Manchester too, capturing the essence of Stockport for scenes set at Kat’s workplace, which resides within a re-purposed Victorian building once serving as an orphanage. Richard Armitage, who plays DCI Ellis Stagger, expressed his admiration for the building, noting its dramatic architectural elements like the elevatable balustrade balcony and dark wood interiors reminiscent of crime scene dramas from eras past.
Greater Manchester residents also get slices of local culture through other filming locations such as Le Mans Crescent and Victoria Square in Bolton, each brimming with local charm and cinematic potential. The filming crew’s choices showcase the rich cultural backdrop of the North, referencing its nickname, 'Hollywood of the North'. Not only does this spotlight the creativity flourishing within these locations, but it also elevates local pride.
Sefton Park, located just outside of Manchester, provides another filming backdrop. Captured perfectly beneath its iconic bandstand, the lush surroundings add both beauty and intrigue to the series, even if the park, known for outdoor yoga sessions, is outside the city limits.
Glossop gives Missing You its more sinister tones, especially during scenes at Titus' farm—a makeshift hostage location. Steve Pemberton, portraying Titus, shared fond memories associated with the rural setting, highlighting it as atmospheric and frightfully charming, offering ideal cinematic drama.
Other scenic spots like the Cheshire coastline at Parkgate and the picturesque village of Great Budworth, where Kat hunts for clues, are integral as they highlight the iconic beauty of the English countryside. The Derwentwater area also plays host to Josh's home, exuding tranquility and isolation, setting the stage for compelling storylines aimed at suspenseful character developments.
With its combination of captivating performances, gripping plotlines, and stunning backdrops, Missing You promises to leave audiences on the edge of their seats. Each filming location enriches the narrative, merging slightly altered realities of the story with the distinctive characteristics of North West England.
With all these remarkable locations, viewers are bound to be drawn not only to the storytelling but also to the visually enthralling settings. So, grab your popcorn and settle down for some wild ride through Manchester and beyond as Missing You is now available to stream on Netflix.