Created by Scott Frank, Netflix’s ‘Department Q’ centers on a former detective named Carl Morck, who is thrust back into his old life as he dredges up a cold case in the wake of a tragedy. After an attack leaves his partner paralyzed and leads to the death of another policeman, Carl is wracked with guilt over his part in the whole incident. However, upon his return to work, he has no time to grieve as he is tasked with solving a cold case that quickly turns his life upside down and takes over every facet of his daily existence. Adapted from Jussi Adler-Olsen’s eponymous Nordic book series, the crime thriller show ventures into dark, murky territory where the difference between right and wrong becomes blurred with every twist. To that end, the setting plays an integral role in capturing the grimy aspects of the narrative in high resolution, offering a glimpse into a morally grey world.
Dept Q Filming Locations
Filming for ‘Department Q’ mainly takes place in Scotland, specifically around the capital city of Edinburgh and East Lothian. The principal photography for the series’ inaugural season began in February 2024 and was wrapped up by June of the same year. In the original novels, the action takes place in the neighborhoods of Copenhagen, Denmark. As such, shifting the show’s central backdrop to Edinburgh, Scotland, was a massive departure from the source material. In an interview with Netflix, Matthew Goode, who plays DCI Carl Morck, stated, “Scott (Frank) brilliantly transposed it from Denmark to Scotland. Edinburgh is smaller than Copenhagen, but both are big port cities. (With its) gothic architecture, and it being the judicial center of Scotland, it’s just a really lovely fit.”
Edinburgh, Scotland
‘Department Q’ is primarily shot in the neighborhoods of Edinburgh, Scotland’s compact and hilly capital region. It is well known for its blend of medieval architecture and modern urban design, capturing the best of both worlds. For production on season 1, the crew utilized numerous areas of the city for their tense and riveting thriller narrative. Many real-life streets and buildings are brought into the fold, adding color, contrast, and substance to the overall setting and worldbuilding while also bringing a sense of authenticity to the filmmaking. To that end, several unique landmarks integral to Edinburgh’s culture, heritage, and history make it into the series, including St. Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral at Palmerston Plaza.
The team lensed key scenes in Wester Hailes, Burdiehouse, Liberton, Marchmont, Morningside, Portobello, Abbeyhill, Southside, Edinburgh City Centre, and Melville Street. While a large bulk of the shooting took place in outdoor environments, the main base for the opening season was set up at FirstStage Studios at 31 Bath Road in Leith. The facility covers almost 9 acres of land, fitted with stages, workshops, offices, and hardstanding, and also provides additional services if and when needed during production. It is equipped with all manner of modern amenities, such as a fast internet connection and access to large trucks and other vehicles, which only enhances its appeal for any filmmaking crew. Another notable spot in Leith that serves as a backdrop is Links Gardens/Links Place, which adds to the show’s chilling atmosphere.
In addition to the studio environment, the production team on ‘Department Q’ also availed the use of aerial drone footage of Edinburgh from a variety of angles, which was carried out by Aerialworx Wales Drone Operator, a video production service operating out of Gaerwen, Wales. Although the neighborhoods in Edinburgh play a huge role in production, some scenes for the first season were also taped in the areas just outside the city. For instance, the Fishery Cottage near Hound Point in the Dalmeny Estate features within the narrative, adding to the ominous vibes ever-present throughout the show. All in all, Edinburgh’s influence is a notable and sometimes vital inclusion in the overarching story, especially as it also lends to the main character’s clash with the local inhabitants.
East Lothian, Scotland
Another distinctly important filming location in ‘Department Q’ is East Lothian, a council area in Scotland. For season 1, the crew lensed some key scenes at Lysander House at Ware Road, Dirleton in North Berwick, and the adjoining area of Yellowcraig Beach. The team also took over a historic pub in the area, namely The Volunteer Arms. Situated at 81 North High Street in the town of Musselburgh, it is a longstanding pub that has been a local favorite since 1858. While its interiors may be snugly fit with traditional wooden structures, paneling, and mirrors, it also sports a variety of modern upgrades, including a lounge that opens on weekends. A partially covered beer garden and solar panel installations add to the pub’s modernizing capabilities, which make a prominent impression in the series.
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