The television series “Will Trent” brings to life the intriguing crime drama found in the novels by Karin Slaughter. With its roots deeply set in the author’s experiences, the show offers a vivid portrayal of Atlanta, Georgia, which serves not just as a backdrop but almost as a character in itself.
The authenticity of the setting is ensured as the majority of the production takes place within the metro Atlanta area. This delivers a genuine Southern atmosphere that fans of the genre can appreciate.
While television magic often transports viewers to different places, “Will Trent” stays true to its narrative heart by filming in the locales where the series is set.
Not only does this approach anchor the show’s stories in reality, but it also pays homage to Atlanta’s unique cultural vibe and landmarks.
Some scenes are captured in Los Angeles, California, broadening the show’s geographical canvas and contributing to its diverse cinematic aesthetics. Do you want to know more about where is Will Trent filmed?
Contents
Key Takeaways
- “Will Trent” is filmed predominantly in Atlanta, reflecting the setting of the original novels
- The series incorporates Atlanta’s landmarks, contributing to the show’s authentic Southern flavor
- A portion of the filming also occurs in Los Angeles, adding to the show’s diverse settings
Overview of Will Trent Series
The “Will Trent” television series takes viewers into the heart of Atlanta, combining the intrigue of crime solving with the depth of a character-driven drama.
It weaves a tale adapted from Karin Slaughter’s books and features a cast that brings the dynamic characters to life, with an impressive release schedule that kicked off on ABC in early 2023.
Adaptation and Creation
“Will Trent” is a skillful adaptation of Karin Slaughter’s book series of the same name. Writers Liz Heldens and Daniel T. Thomsen developed the series for television, translating the intricate plots and complex character relationships of the novels to the screen.
Set in Atlanta, Georgia, the show provides an authentic backdrop that mirrors the setting of the original book series, giving it a grounded and realistic feel.
Core Cast and Characters
The series stars Mark-Paul Gosselaar as the eponymous Will Trent, a special agent with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) who is known for his sharp instincts and peculiar methods.
Joining Gosselaar is Jennifer Morrison, who takes on the role of Faith Mitchell, Trent’s partner at the GBI.
The chemistry between the characters adds a compelling layer to the drama, while the cast members’ portrayals bring out the intricacies of their personalities and backstories.
Release Timeline
“Will Trent” premiered on ABC to much anticipation on January 3, 2023. The buzz around the show’s release was significant, thanks to its strong source material and a well-crafted promotional campaign.
The series quickly captured the attention of a wide audience, capitalizing on the procedural crime drama genre’s consistent appeal.
In April 2023, ABC acknowledged the series’ success by renewing it for a second season, which premiered on February 20, 2024, continuing the saga of Will Trent and his unwavering pursuit of justice in Atlanta.
Filming Specifics
When they settle in to watch “Will Trent,” viewers are not just tuning into a gripping drama about a savvy Special Agent from the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI), they’re also getting a tour through the vibrant locales where the story unravels.
The series brings Georgia’s landscapes to the screen with authenticity and attention to detail. Let’s delve into where is Will Trent filmed.
Primary Filming Locations
“Will Trent” transforms the bustling Metro Atlanta area into its narrative playground, utilizing Georgia’s diverse settings to represent the many facets of the plot.
Eagle Rock Studios in Norcross served as a central hub throughout production, laying down the foundation for the series’ intricate storytelling.
Parts of the show were also filmed in California, notably Los Angeles, juxtaposing the East Coast charm with West Coast glam.
- Georgia: The mainstay for “Will Trent” where most of the filming takes place
- Key Locations:
- Metro Atlanta: The heart of the show’s backdrop
- Eagle Rock Studios: The prominent production fortress in Norcross
- Key Locations:
- California: A touch of West Coast scenery.
- Cities Filmed:
- Los Angeles: Selected to capture certain scenes for the show
- Cities Filmed:
Notable Landmarks and Studios
Throughout the series, viewers can spot numerous landmarks that locals would instantly recognize, grounding “Will Trent” in the realism of its Georgia setting.
Eagle Rock Studios plays a pivotal role, not just as a locale but as an integral character, providing the infrastructure essential for the show’s production.
They might not appear as they are in reality, given the magic of set dressing and Hollywood flair, but these spaces contribute a genuine vibe to the series that fans appreciate.
- Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI): Though not a filming location, the institution is central to the series’ premise and represented in various filming locations throughout the metro area
- Eagle Rock Studios: The extensive production facilities where much of the magic happens, one of the largest in the United States
- Streaming on Hulu: After airing, viewers can catch past episodes on this popular streaming service, bringing Georgia right to their screens wherever they are
Cast and Character Insights
Exploring the dynamic characters of “Will Trent,” the series showcases a blend of intriguing protagonists and complex antagonists, complemented by thoughtful character development.
The actors bring their roles to life with authenticity and depth, presenting a captivating portrayal of the intricacies of human behavior.
Protagonists and Antagonists
- Sonja Sohn potrays Angie Polaski, a vital character with an intricate connection to the protagonist. As a skilled detective within the Atlanta Police Department (APD), she balances professional aptitude with a compelling personal history
- Ramón Rodríguez is Will Trent, a special agent hailing from the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI). His dyslexia adds depth to Rodríguez’s portrayal and is handled with delicacy, making his character relatable and human
- Erika Christensen takes on the role of another key figure, whose backstory and personal motives are gradually peeled back, delivering rich antagonistic elements to the narrative
Character Development and Backgrounds
- Sonja Sohn’s character, Angie Polaski, shares a deep past with Will Trent, marked by her tangled relationships and her personal growth, both of which unfold in parallel with the criminal cases
- Ramón Rodríguez’s character is defined not only by his dyslexia but also by his unique perspective; it’s this unique trait that often leads to breakthroughs in cases. The TV show sensitively depicts how his character copes with and overcomes daily challenges
- Actors like Erika Christensen and Iantha Richardson, imbue their roles with a nuanced sense of authenticity. Christensen in particular presents a character whose polished exterior gradually reveals deeper layers
Series Reception and Impact
As “Will Trent” unfolds on the screen, its reception echoes through the halls of critics and homes of viewers, shaping discussions about its societal implications and entertainment value.
Critical Acclaim and Viewership
While “The Rookie” and its spinoff, “The Rookie: Feds,” have set a certain standard for crime dramas, “Will Trent” steps into the spotlight with its own flair.
Critics have been keen to point out the show’s nuanced storytelling and how it grapples with the complexities of crime-solving, reflected in its clearance rate—often a metric of success for procedural narratives.
Ratings-wise, the show has drawn in an audience seeking a mix of sharp wit and heartfelt drama.
- Average ratings: Details pending specifics
- Comparison to “The Rookie”:
- The Rookie : Ratings X
- The Rookie: Feds : Ratings Y
- Will Trent : Ratings Z
Cultural and Social Relevance
“Will Trent” doesn’t just entertain; it invites viewers to look at the world with a critical eye.
The show has been commended for providing a glimpse into the life of law enforcement and the pressures they face, which resonate with current social dialogues.
It addresses these societal themes subtly, yet powerfully, connecting with its audience on more than just a thrilling chase for justice.
- Themes:
- Law Enforcement: Insights into the mental and emotional struggles of detectives
- Justice System: Reflecting on the clearance rate as a measure of efficacy
Behind-the-Scenes Exclusives
When the cameras stopped rolling on the set of Will Trent, what unfolded behind the scenes was as intriguing as the drama itself.
From the carefully constructed environments that brought the show to life to the collaborative spirit guiding the writing and directing, here’s an exclusive peek into the making of a show that delves into the complexities of crime and justice.
Production Design and Challenges
On Will Trent, the production design team faced the intriguing challenge of transforming Georgia’s vast metropolis into a visual storytelling mosaic. The series, produced by 20th Television, took the distinctive architecture and atmosphere of Metro Atlanta and Gwinnett County to set the stage for the intricate corruption cases that Special Agent Will Trent unravels.
Filming began in August 2022, capturing the essence of Atlanta’s urban and suburban landscapes. Making the scenes feel genuine required meticulous attention to details. This included everything from the graffiti on the back alley walls to the layout of a local police department.
Crafting the home and workspaces for characters like Will Trent and his supervisor Amanda Wagner was done with a focus on reality, based on research and the team’s dedication to reflect the dynamics of working in the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI). Each setting was chosen to complement the narrative, especially when exposing the cracks in a seemingly normal facade, much like Will’s own journey from the foster care system to becoming a skilled detective.
Writing and Directing Efforts
The magic of Will Trent lay not only in its visual aesthetic but also in the stories brought to life through a combined effort of writing and directing. The writers, in collaboration with 20th Television and ABC, spun a narrative web that captivated audiences, premiering on January 3, 2023.
Each episode required a fine balance. The writers aimed to stay true to the complex source material—balancing criminal investigations with personal stories—while the directors guided the actors to embody their roles with a raw, empathetic touch.
The show’s pilot, set against the backdrop of the Entertainment Arts, introduced viewers to a world where nothing was as simple as it appeared. In subsequent episodes, the layered storytelling unraveled, maintaining a synergy between the directors’ vision and the actors’ portrayal.
The honesty in the characters’ interactions, especially that of Will Trent, whose challenges with dyslexia and past in the foster care system inform his methods, resonated deeply with viewers. This seamless blend of narrative depth, directorial precision, and performance brought authenticity to the show’s exploration of complex themes.
Final Words
“Will Trent,” the gripping series that fans have come to love, paints a vivid picture of crime and investigation amidst the backdrop of Georgia’s capital.
Filming predominantly takes place in Atlanta. Here, viewers get a taste of the city’s rich landscapes and urban settings from the cozy neighborhoods to the bustling streets.
Key locations such as the historic Atlanta Police Department Headquarters and the lively Ponce City Market contribute significantly to the show’s authentic feel. They aren’t just backdrops; they’re characters in their own right, adding depth and a tangible sense of place to the unfolding drama.
Filming also stretches to other parts of Georgia, ensuring a genuine Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) experience.
Reports suggest that the production team also headed west to include scenes from Los Angeles, California. This not only diversifies the on-screen environment but also brings a taste of Hollywood’s production magic to the TV show.
