Ritesh Sharma
‘Happy Face’ is a compelling true-crime drama inspired by Melissa Moore’s memoir ‘Shattered Silence’ and her 2018 podcast ‘Happy Face,’ which she co-hosted with journalist Lauren Bright Pacheco. Created by Jennifer Cacicio, the show follows Melissa Reed, who discovers as a teenager that her father, Keith Hunter Jesperson, is a serial killer. As she tries to move on, his presence continues to haunt her, forcing her to confront the truth she has long buried.
The series masterfully uses its surroundings to heighten the tension, reflecting Melissa’s inner turmoil and the weight of her father’s crimes. From isolated stretches that evoke fear to confined spaces that trap dark memories, every setting plays a part in shaping the story. As Melissa digs deeper into her past, she must decide whether to keep running or finally face the horrors head-on. ‘Happy Face’ is a haunting tale of identity, trauma, and the lasting scars of a killer’s legacy.
Happy Face Filming Locations
‘Happy Face’ is filmed entirely in Vancouver, British Columbia, a city that seamlessly blends atmosphere with storytelling. Production for the inaugural season began on March 19, 2024, with the cast and crew pouring their dedication into every frame. Their commitment ensured a smooth and efficient shoot, allowing filming to wrap up in just a few months, on June 19, 2024. Despite the intense scenes and emotionally charged moments, the cast enjoyed their time on set, bonding over the experience and exploring Vancouver’s stunning locations during breaks.
Vancouver, British Columbia
‘Happy Face’ is filmed extensively in Vancouver, British Columbia, utilizing the city’s diverse urban and suburban landscapes to authentically portray Melissa Moore’s journey. Each location is carefully selected to enhance the realism of the narrative, ensuring an immersive viewing experience. New Westminster City Hall, situated at 511 Royal Avenue in New Westminster, serves as the backdrop for courtroom sequences, police department interiors, and municipal office settings. Its stately architecture has also been featured in ‘Watchmen’ and ‘The X-Files,’ adding to its history as a cinematic landmark.
The Gastown District, specifically around the intersection of Water Street and Cambie Street, is used for scenes involving Melissa’s investigative pursuits, confrontations with media personnel, and street interviews. The district’s historic brick buildings and atmospheric streets have also set the stage for ‘Supernatural’ and ‘Arrow.’ Stanley Park, located in Vancouver, provides a scenic setting for reflective moments by the lake, flashbacks to Melissa’s childhood, and conversations with confidants. The park’s vast green landscapes have made it a go-to location for major productions like ‘Rise of the Planet of the Apes’ and ‘Deadpool.’
Meanwhile, East Hastings Street, particularly between Main Street and Clark Drive, serves as the location for investigations into victim backgrounds, interactions with local residents, and searches for evidence. Its gritty urban setting has previously been utilized in ‘The Butterfly Effect’ and ‘The Man in the High Castle.’ The Vancouver Public Library – Central Branch, situated at 350 West Georgia Street, is the setting for research sessions, meetings with journalists, and archival investigations. Its futuristic design has made it a striking backdrop for films like ‘The Sixth Day’ and series such as ‘The Flash.’
Pacific Central Station, located at 1150 Station Street, is used for Melissa’s arrivals and departures, key character encounters, and moments of contemplation. The station’s classic architecture has also been seen in ‘Bates Motel’ and ‘The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus.’ Riverview Hospital, situated at 2601 Lougheed Highway in Coquitlam, serves as the backdrop for psychiatric evaluations, conversations with medical professionals, and therapy sessions. With its eerie atmosphere, it has long been a favorite for productions like ‘Dark Angel.’
Burnaby Mountain, located in Burnaby, is used for reflective hikes, discussions with close friends, and moments of decision-making. Its natural beauty has previously been showcased in ‘Battlestar Galactica’ and ‘Tomorrowland.’ The Pacific National Exhibition Agrodome, situated at 2901 East Hastings Street in Vancouver, is the filming location for public addresses, community meetings, and press conferences. Its vast space has hosted scenes in ‘Aliens vs. Predator: Requiem’ and ‘Legends of Tomorrow.’
Lastly, Kitsilano Beach, located along the coastline of Vancouver, is featured in casual conversations, moments of introspection, and meetings with allies. This picturesque shoreline has also appeared in ‘Smallville’ and ‘Juno,’ emphasizing its versatility as a filming location. These meticulously chosen locations contribute to the depth of ‘Happy Face,’ reinforcing its realism and thematic weight. The production team’s strategic location choices ensures that each scene aligns with the show’s tone, creating a compelling and visually authentic experience.
Read More: Where Was Hulu’s Control Freak Filmed?
