True Detective: Night Country Filming Locations Revealed

The Chilling Alaskan Setting

True Detective: Night Country, the fourth installment in HBO's anthology crime series, has captured the attention of viewers with its unique Alaskan setting. Unlike previous seasons that were set in locations like Louisiana and the Ozarks, Night Country takes place in the fictional town of Ennis, Alaska. Starring Jodie Foster as Detective Liz Danvers and pro-boxer-turned-actor Kali Reis as Detective Evangeline Navarro, the series delves into the investigation of the mysterious disappearance of eight men from a remote research station. The show has been praised for its ability to create a chilling atmosphere that reflects the unforgiving nature of the Alaskan wilderness.

Jodie Foster as Danvers and Kali Reis as Navarro stare into a snowy landscape in True Detective season 4

Additionally, the decision to set the series in Alaska adds a new layer of depth to the True Detective universe, showcasing the versatility and adaptability of the show's storytelling. With a focus on the stark beauty and harsh realities of the Alaskan landscape, Night Country presents a captivating backdrop for the unfolding mystery and drama.

True Detective Night Country

The shift to an Alaskan setting marks a significant departure from previous seasons and highlights the series' commitment to exploring new and compelling environments. This change not only offers a fresh perspective for the show but also presents an opportunity to immerse viewers in the haunting allure of the northern wilderness.

Kali Reis as Navarro and Jodie Foster as Danvers staring into the ice in a True Detective season 4 promo

Iceland: The Nordic Stand-In

While True Detective: Night Country is set in the unending darkness of Alaska in the winter, the cast and crew filmed the series' latest outing in Iceland, not Alaska. The decision to film in Iceland allowed the production to capture the barren stretches of tundra and the blue-tinged darkness of the setting, effectively reflecting the show's larger emotional atmosphere.

navarro-stands-next-to-police-car-in-true-detective-season-4

The use of Iceland as a stand-in for Alaska provided the series with a breathtaking backdrop that enhanced the storytelling and visual impact of Night Country. By leveraging Iceland's unsettling twilight and frigid darkness, the production team succeeded in creating an atmosphere that is truly gripping and authentic.

Rose talking to Travis in True Detective season 4

In addition to the capital city of Reykjavík, the crew ventured to the remote towns of Akureyri and Dalvík in North Iceland to bring the fictional small-town setting of Ennis, Alaska, to life. These locations, with their eerie and remote nature, added depth and richness to the series, further immersing viewers in the world of True Detective: Night Country.

Law enforcement excavating the frozen scientist in True Detective season 4

A Unique Filming Experience

The decision to film True Detective: Night Country in Iceland instead of Alaska offered the cast and crew a unique and challenging experience. Despite the logistical and environmental differences, the production team successfully transformed Iceland's landscape to evoke the chilling and remote Alaskan setting, demonstrating their creativity and dedication to bringing Night Country to life.

The use of Iceland as a stand-in for the Alaskan setting not only showcased the versatility of the filming locations but also highlighted the impact of environment on storytelling. The juxtaposition of Iceland's natural beauty with the fictional portrayal of Ennis, Alaska, added depth and complexity to the series, elevating the overall viewing experience for audiences around the world.