Code 8 is set in a world where superhumans, called Powers, face discrimination and are treated as criminals. Both movies in the franchise were filmed entirely in one city. The Netflix series was inspired by a short film from 2016, directed by Jeff Chan and starring real-life cousins Robbie and Stephen Amell. The first Code 8 movie, released in 2019, was well-received, leading to Netflix greenlighting a sequel, Code 8: Part II, which premiered in 2024.
In the sequel, the Amell cousins return as Connor Reed and Garrett Kelton, joined by a cast that includes Sirena Gulamgaus as Pavani, Altair Vincent as Officer Stillman, Alex Mallari Jr. as Sergeant Kingston, Moe Jeudy-Lamour as Officer Cirelli, Aaron Abrams as Officer Davis, and Jean Yoon as Mina. The production team chose to film at the same location as the first movie, finding success in the familiar setting. However, the Amell cousins made a special trip to a meaningful location to shoot a scene for the sequel.
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Connor uses his powers in Code 8 Part 2 - Toronto, Ontario, Canada
The principal photography for Code 8 and Code 8: Part II was carried out entirely in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, according to The Cinemaholic. A successful crowdfunding campaign in 2016 enabled the producers, which included Robbie and Stephen Amell, to transform their short film into a full-length project. The Amell cousins selected Toronto as their production hub, with filming commencing on June 1, 2017, and wrapping up by the end of July.
The cast and crew of the Netflix science fiction action series filmed in various locations throughout the city of Toronto, with several scenes featuring iconic Toronto landmarks. Specific locations utilized in both Code 8 movies include a TD Canada Trust branch for the bank heist scene, East Chinatown for Connor's interrogation, and the Main Square. The conclusion of Code 8 was filmed at the RC Harris Water Treatment Plant.
Berkindale Drive In Toronto
Alex Mallari Jr. as Sergeant Kingston and Sarena Parmar as Stephanie Kingston in Code 8 Part II. - Berkindale Drive In Toronto
Robbie and Stephen Amell, in an interview with People, discussed their experience filming Code 8 and Code 8: Part II in Toronto, their hometown. They also shared that the filming location for King's house in the sequel held special significance for them, as it was near where one of them had grown up. Robbie Amell recalled a moment during filming:
"One day, we shot down the block from where Steve grew up. As we stood there, he pointed out the familiar surroundings and asked if I recognized the place. I was taken aback and he confirmed, 'Yep, right down that street.' I remembered, 'The house with the pool.' He chuckled, 'Oh, yeah.'"
Stephen Amell added:
"[The house is] literally a stone's throw from 42 Berkindale Drive, where I spent 10 years in my childhood."
Berkindale Drive is situated approximately 30 minutes north of downtown Toronto in the administrative district of North York. The cast and crew explored various locations in the city while filming both movies. Toronto, being the largest city in Canada, made it quite a coincidence that a scene in the 2024 science fiction action movie was shot near Stephen Amell's childhood home on Berkindale Drive. Despite this, it was a truly memorable experience for the Amell cousins as they collaborated on the Code 8 series together.
Although Netflix has not yet confirmed Code 8: Part 3, Robbie and Stephen Amell have hinted at having ideas for a third film.
Sources: The Cinemaholic, People
Editor's P/S:
The article provides an intriguing glimpse behind the scenes of the "Code 8" franchise, revealing the importance of Toronto as its production hub and the personal connection that the Amell cousins have to the city. The decision to film both movies entirely in Toronto not only facilitated continuity but also allowed the cast and crew to showcase the city's landmarks and unique atmosphere.
The special significance of Berkindale Drive in "Code 8: Part II" adds an emotional layer to the production. The fact that a scene was shot near Stephen Amell's childhood home highlights the personal connection that the filmmakers have to the city and the project. This personal touch adds depth and authenticity to the film and makes the viewing experience more relatable and immersive for audiences.