The television series Suits has captivated audiences worldwide with its blend of legal drama, character development, and high-stakes business intrigue. Set in the world of law and finance, the series follows the life of Mike Ross, a college dropout with a photographic memory, and his mentor, Harvey Specter, a top attorney at Pearson Specter L.L.P. The question that often arises among fans and viewers is: what city was Suits filmed in? This article delves into the filming locations, the reasons behind the choice, and the impact of the setting on the series.
Understanding the Setting
Suits is set in the bustling metropolis of New York City, a city known for its fast-paced lifestyle, financial powerhouses, and legal institutions. The show’s setting is crucial to its narrative, as it provides a backdrop that is both familiar and exotic to viewers. New York City’s reputation as a hub for law and finance is a central theme in the series, reflecting the professional lives of the characters.
The Filming Locations
Contrary to popular belief, Suits was not filmed entirely in New York City. The series was primarily shot in Toronto, Canada, a city that has become a popular filming location for American television shows due to its favorable climate, tax incentives, and architectural similarities to New York. Here are some of the key locations used in the series:
– Scenes at Pearson Specter L.L.P.: The offices of Pearson Specter L.L.P. were primarily filmed at the Sony Centre for the Performing Arts in Toronto. The interior design and layout of the building were adapted to resemble a high-end law firm.
– Harvey Specter’s Apartment: Harvey’s apartment was shot at the Trump International Hotel and Tower in Toronto, which offers a luxurious and modern setting that fits the character’s status.
– Outdoor Scenes: Many of the outdoor scenes, such as those depicting the bustling streets of New York City, were actually filmed in Toronto. The city’s infrastructure and architecture were altered to mimic the look of New York.
Reasons for Filming in Toronto
Several factors contributed to the decision to film Suits in Toronto:
– Cost Efficiency: Toronto offers a more cost-effective filming environment compared to New York City. The lower costs help keep the production budget in check, allowing for more resources to be allocated to other aspects of the show.
– Climate Control: Toronto’s climate is milder than that of New York City, which allows for year-round filming without the need for extensive weather modifications.
– Architectural Similarities: Toronto’s architecture closely resembles that of New York City, making it an ideal substitute for filming scenes set in the Big Apple.
The Impact of the Setting on the Series
The choice to film Suits in Toronto, while not entirely accurate, has had a significant impact on the series:
– Character Development: The setting has influenced the characters’ interactions and the progression of their relationships. The series often highlights the contrast between the luxurious lifestyle of the characters and the reality of their surroundings.
– Plot Development: The setting has provided a rich backdrop for the series’ legal and business plots. The characters’ professional lives are deeply intertwined with the city’s legal and financial institutions.
– Viewer Engagement: The series has managed to maintain its authenticity despite the change in location. This has allowed viewers to become deeply invested in the characters and their storylines.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Suits was filmed in Toronto, Canada, primarily due to cost efficiency, climate control, and architectural similarities to New York City. While the series is set in the Big Apple, the choice to film in Toronto has had a significant impact on the show’s character development, plot progression, and viewer engagement. The series has managed to maintain its authenticity and appeal, despite the change in location, and has become a beloved staple of television drama. As the show continues to evolve, the importance of its setting remains a crucial element in its ongoing success.
Recommendations and Future Research
For future research, it would be interesting to explore how the choice of filming location has influenced the reception and popularity of Suits among viewers. Additionally, further studies could investigate the economic impact of filming television series in Toronto and other cities that serve as substitutes for major American cities. Furthermore, it would be valuable to examine how the series’ setting has evolved over time and how this has contributed to the show’s narrative and character development.
