Where Netflix’s ‘Voicemails for Isabelle’ Was Actually Filmed Will Surprise You
Netflix has introduced a new romantic treasure, and viewers are quickly becoming enamored with its enchanting world. ‘Voicemails for Isabelle’ features Zoey Deutch as Jill, an aspiring pastry chef grappling with grief after the loss of her younger sister, and Nick Robinson as Wes, the stranger who inadvertently starts receiving her heartfelt messages. The film has garnered praise for its emotional resonance and vibrant sense of place, making the revelation of its actual filming locations even more intriguing.
The romantic comedy was largely filmed on location, with San Francisco playing a pivotal role in showcasing the city’s beauty. However, the production story is much richer than just a few sunny California days. The crew traveled extensively to create the emotional landscape that audiences are now falling in love with on their screens.
Vancouver, British Columbia, served as the heart of the ‘Voicemails for Isabelle’ production, with most filming taking place there from July to September 2025. The city is a popular choice for filmmakers due to its versatile urban scenery, dependable infrastructure, and ability to convincingly represent various North American locales.
Filming for ‘Voicemails for Isabelle’ occurred primarily from July 10th to September 10th, 2025. Notably, some scenes were shot at Commercial Drive, particularly at the bar and restaurant Havana. The neighborhood’s eclectic and lived-in vibe provided the production with the authentic backdrop necessary for a story centered on genuine human experiences.
Production also utilized David Lam Park in Vancouver’s trendy Yaletown area. This waterfront park provided stunning views, open pathways, and a serene atmosphere that complemented the film’s quieter emotional scenes. For a narrative deeply rooted in dealing with grief and seeking connection, these reflective outdoor settings carry significant narrative weight.
Another key filming location was Martini Studios in Langley, where many interior scenes were shot. The studio featured custom-built sets that recreated Jill’s San Francisco apartment, kitchen spaces, and other indoor environments. This level of studio work allowed director Leah McKendrick to maintain creative control over the intimate, character-driven moments that form the film’s emotional core.
As reported by SFGate in mid-September, the film also transitioned to San Francisco for its final filming phase, capturing scenes at Fisherman’s Wharf and other iconic locations such as Golden Gate Park, Union Square, and the Palace of Fine Arts. This real-world exploration of the city’s most cherished landmarks has resonated with fans in the completed film.
A pivotal scene takes place near a bench with a view of the Golden Gate Bridge, where a crucial encounter between Wes and Jill is filled with chemistry, awkward pickup lines, and an unexpected outburst, leading to a connection that is impossible to ignore. Filming this moment on location rather than against a green screen adds a tangible weight and texture that audiences can truly feel.
Background casting for the San Francisco shoot occurred on September 8th and 9th, with the production seeking tourists on a tour bus, Tai Chi practitioners, joggers, and pedestrians to populate scenes in the Bay Area. This attention to including a diverse range of local life reflects a production team that aimed to make San Francisco feel authentic rather than merely decorative.
The film was both written and directed by Leah McKendrick, featuring cinematography by Julia Swain, editing by Lee Haxall and Ryan C. Fill, and music by Este Haim and Amanda Yamate. Produced by Sony Pictures and Escape Artists, this creative team infused intentionality into every frame, from the studio interiors in Langley to the golden hour light illuminating San Francisco Bay.
Originally announced in 2019 with Hailee Steinfeld set to star and Sharon Maguire as director, the lengthy production journey makes the final, location-rich result feel even more like a passion project that refused to fade away.
McKendrick’s vision is evident in every setting choice, from the bustling streets of Vancouver standing in for San Francisco to the iconic California landmarks that anchor the film’s climax. Her determination to use real locations instead of relying solely on studio approximations lends the film a grounded romantic quality that has resonated with both critics and audiences.
Fans have enthusiastically embraced the locations featured in ‘Voicemails for Isabelle’. On social media, many viewers have commended the film for making both Vancouver and San Francisco feel intimately connected to the story.
Some viewers have expressed a desire to visit Commercial Drive and David Lam Park, while others have humorously noted that Jill’s apartment boasts suspiciously good views for someone constantly anxious about her career.
Travel enthusiasts have already started adding several of the showcased locations to their future travel itineraries, illustrating how a successful romance can inspire tourism just as effectively as a glossy travel brochure. This phenomenon underscores the powerful impact that well-chosen locations can have on a film’s legacy.
‘Voicemails for Isabelle’ is now streaming globally on Netflix, and discussions surrounding it are just beginning. If you have visited any of the real Vancouver or San Francisco locations featured in the film, or if the settings enhanced the romance for you, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments.