If you’re a fan of high-octane action movies and have a soft spot for picturesque European cities, Canary Black might just be the next movie you should watch. Starring the ever-charismatic Kate Beckinsale, this espionage thriller takes viewers on a wild ride through stunning locations, with Zagreb, Croatia, stealing the spotlight as its primary filming hub. Directed by Pierre Morel—known for hits like Taken—the movie blends intense action sequences with a backdrop of urban charm and historic architecture, making it a visual treat as much as an adrenaline rush.
Canary Black was released on October 24, 2024, and is available exclusively as an Amazon Prime Original, meaning you can stream it directly on Prime Video in over 240 countries and territories where the service is offered. The film follows Avery Graves (Beckinsale), a CIA operative blackmailed into betraying her country to save her kidnapped husband, delivering a fast-paced narrative filled with twists, explosions, and hand-to-hand combat. Reception has been mixed but leans positive among action fans—critics on IMDb gave it a 4.9/10 based on early reviews, while audience reactions on platforms like X praise Beckinsale’s performance and the film’s sleek production values. It’s not a groundbreaking spy tale, but it’s a solid popcorn flick with a unique European flair.
Which Sites, Buildings, and Locations in Zagreb Can Be Seen Throughout the Movie?
Zagreb’s vibrant streets and iconic landmarks serve as more than just a backdrop—they’re practically characters in Canary Black. The film showcases several recognizable spots that locals and tourists alike will spot immediately. Maksimir Stadium, one of Croatia’s largest sports venues, features prominently in action-packed sequences, its sprawling structure adding scale to the chaos. Ban Josip Jelačić Square, the bustling heart of Zagreb, appears with its historic statue and surrounding architecture, grounding the film in the city’s lively atmosphere. The Gric Tunnel, a relic of World War II turned pedestrian walkway, becomes a gritty setting for tense moments, its dimly lit concrete walls amplifying the suspense. These locations, filmed between October 2022 and January 2023, highlight Zagreb’s blend of modern energy and historical depth, making it a star of the movie in its own right.
Are There Other Famous Locations Also to Be Seen in the Movie? Yes, from Rovinj in Croatia and Ljubljana in Slovenia (Triple Bridge)
While Zagreb dominates the screen, Canary Black doesn’t stop there—it also ventures to other stunning locales in Croatia and Slovenia. Rovinj, a picturesque coastal town in Croatia, doubles as Tokyo in the film, its charming seaside streets and colorful buildings cleverly repurposed for a high-speed chase scene. The Adriatic gem’s versatility shines through, proving it can stand in for a global metropolis. Meanwhile, Ljubljana, Slovenia, makes a memorable cameo with its famous Triple Bridge, featured in the movie’s climactic final scene. This iconic pedestrian crossing, framed by the Ljubljanica River and elegant architecture, provides a dramatic and visually striking close to the story. These additions broaden the film’s geographic palette, offering viewers a taste of the region’s diverse beauty beyond Zagreb.
Bring the popcorn!
It’s nice to see Zagreb in a movie, but it’s much more beautiful in real life. Canary Black captures the city’s essence through its thrilling lens, but nothing beats experiencing its cobblestone streets, vibrant squares, and warm hospitality firsthand. Come visit the movie for yourself, and use the information available on this website to learn more before you come. But until then, you might want to spend some hours streaming Canary Black online—Kate Beckinsale kicking ass in Zagreb is a fun way to get acquainted with this Croatian gem from the comfort of your couch.
