The true story of how the Boston Globe uncovered the massive scandal of child molestation and cover-up within the local Catholic Archdiocese, shaking the entire Catholic Church to its core.
The Oscar-winning newsroom drama follows the Boston Globe reporters who exposed the Catholic Church abuse scandal – and grounds its story in the real Boston, though, in a common production move, many of its interiors were filmed across the border in Toronto.
Where was Spotlight filmed?
Spotlight was filmed in Boston (exteriors and landmarks) and Toronto (many interiors).
Every Spotlight location, explained
1
Boston – the real city
The film used real Boston for its exteriors, from Downtown Crossing to the city’s churches and streets.
2
The Globe newsroom – Toronto
Many interiors, including the newsroom, were filmed in Toronto.
3
The churches
Church scenes used real ecclesiastical settings, including in Toronto.
4
The civic buildings
The film used civic buildings across both cities to recreate the investigation’s world.
Planning a visit
Boston – the real setting of the Globe’s investigation – grounds the film, its downtown and churches walkable pieces of the story.
Spotlight Fun Facts
1
Boston outside, Toronto inside The exteriors used real Boston, but many interiors were shot in Toronto.
2
Based on a true investigation It dramatises the Boston Globe’s real Pulitzer-winning investigation.
3
It won Best Picture Spotlight took the Academy Award for Best Picture.
4
A newsroom procedural The film is celebrated for its restrained, methodical storytelling.
5
A real newsroom feel The production recreated the Globe’s newsroom in detail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was Spotlight filmed?
In Boston (exteriors) and Toronto (many interiors, including the newsroom).
Is Spotlight a true story?
Yes – it dramatises the Boston Globe’s real investigation.
Can you visit the locations?
Yes – Boston’s downtown and churches are accessible.
