Filmmakers are drawn to Chicago for its dynamic blend of urban grit and architectural beauty, offering a visually striking backdrop that can stand in for a variety of settings. The city’s iconic skyline, historic neighborhoods, and diverse locations—from gritty alleyways to elegant lakefront views—provide rich cinematic texture.
But more importantly, Chicago offers strong support for the film industry, including tax incentives, experienced local crews, state-of-the-art film studios, and a cooperative city government that streamlines permits and logistics.
Its vibrant cultural scene and deep connection to American storytelling further enhance its appeal, making it a favorite for TV series such as Chicago Fire, Chicago P.D., Chicago Med, The Chi, Deli Boys, Emperor of Ocean Park, The Bear, Power Book IV: Force, Somebody Somewhere, Dark Matter, and Monster, as well as big-budget productions, and independent filmmakers alike.
At a time when film production in Los Angeles and Atlanta is experiencing notable slowdowns, in contrast, Chicago has remained a stable location for film production.
Here’s what we know is filming in Chicago. Not included are several projects that are not yet official:
Dark Matter
Dark Matter currently filming its second season in Chicago through August. Starring Joel Edgerton and Jennifer Connelly, the series delves into alternate realities and has chosen Chicago’s diverse settings to bring its complex narrative to life. Season 2 Apple TV+’s sci-fi thriller production offices are located at The Fields Studio. Based on the bestselling novel by Blake Crouch, who also serves as showrunner, Dark Matter is an edge-of-your-seat thriller that has captivated audiences worldwide. The series is streaming on Apple TV+.
Enemies
With a $25 million film budget, the Enemies stars Austin Butler and Jeremy Allen White is about a loner contact killer who takes on a new assignment causing a detective to take notice and forcing the pair to realize they might be more alike than they think. Production offices are at Cinespace. Filming will begin at the end of May with a schedule of 30 filming days in Chicago.
Moses The Black
Originally scheduled to begin in May, Moses The Black startup has been pushed to September. The film was inspired by an incredible story of repentance set in modern day Chicago, based on the 4th century saint of the same name. Moses the Black was an influential historical and spiritual figure known for his transformative journey from a life of crime to sainthood. Written and directed by Yelena Popovic, the film marks the first production by their studio following the success of their 2021 movie, Man of God, which highlighted the life of St. Nektarios of Aegina.
We will soon have more info on those projects that are about to go into production.
Chicago had a busy first quarter of 2025. Five series have completed filming.
That’s a wrap
Chicago Fire, Chicago P.D., Chicago Med
Chicago Fire Season 13, Chicago Med Season 10, and Chicago P.D. Season 12 began filming in July and have completed filming 22 episodes.
Monster
This third season of Monster, titled The Original Monster, starring Charlie Hunnam who portrayed notorious serial killer Ed Gein, began filming in October 31, 2024 in Los Angeles and moved to film in several locations in the Chicago area. This latest installment in the Monster anthology series continues to push the boundaries of crime storytelling, combining detailed character studies with dramatic tension.
The Bear
The Bear returned in February to complete filming of Season 4. The critically acclaimed FX series that has garnered praise for its authentic portrayal of Chicago’s culinary scene, has once again utilized various city locations to capture its unique atmosphere. The multi-award-winning series filmed a portion of Season 4 last year along with Season 3 and returned to Chicago this winter to complete the season. FX’s The Bear is set to premiere its fourth season on Sunday, June 15, 2025, on Hulu.
ALSO READ:
Jake Lockett bids an emotional farewell to Chicago Fire
