Mea Culpa is a Netflix film released February 23rd, 2024 that has generated major buzz. The movie has gained the number one spot on Netflix in an incredibly short time period. The drama is a legal thriller that tells the story of Mea (Kelly Rowland) as she unravels a murder mystery. The married criminal defense attorney seemingly meets her match in Zyair (Trevante Rhodes), the artist accused of murdering his girlfriend.
The film poses an interesting question to its audience even with its title. Mea Culpa is the ominous name of the film which has double meaning. The term comes from Latin, translating to “through my fault”. It is an admission or exclamation of guilt from Ancient Rome. Since the main character’s name is Mea, audiences can guess the title’s implications.
Where Was ‘Mea Culpa’ Filmed?
The movie was written and directed by Tyler Perry, who is known to film his movies in the Atlanta metropolitan area. In fact, one of his first major films “Diary of a Mad Black Woman” featured his own Atlanta mansion. It is clear from his track record that the filmmaker, actor and playwright has claimed Atlanta as his home and business base.
The filming destinations of this movie were integral in creating the tone and allure of the storyline. So, the mysterious and dramatic premise of the film is supplemented by the destinations which it was captured in. Check out this deep dive into where Mea Culpa was filmed and what travelers can expect to see there.
Atlanta
- Key Scenes: interior and studio shots
- Best Time to Visit: for best weather, March through April or September through October
- Transportation Options: MARTA trains and buses
Atlanta was the major filming location for the movie Mea Culpa. This city is commonly referred to as the Hollywood of the South since it is such a popular filming locale and tourist destination. While many travelers will enjoy a tour of the studios (that are generally offered by tour companies and may not include interior viewings), there is plenty to do in Atlanta. The best times to visit are the spring and autumn months, since the temperamental weather of the city usually dies down by then.
The metropolitan city was the perfect background choice to capture the fast-paced attorney’s lifestyle. Mea’s office, steamy scenes in Zyair’s apartment and even courtroom scenes were captured in the big city. Atlanta is known as a Black business hub and rightfully so. So this destination selection was ideal because the city is filled with diverse scenery, a strong filmmaking industry and is easily accessible.
Almost all of the interior scenes were sets built in Tyler Perry Studios. The controlled environment used for interior filming helped to hasten production. Various apartments and offices were made for the film while minimal exterior shots were captured in the studio backlot.
Things to Do: The most popular things to do in Atlanta include the Georgia Aquarium, High Museum of Art, Atlanta Botanical Garden, World of Coca-Cola, Piedmont Park, Fox Theatre and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights.
Where to Eat: Atlanta has an array of dining offerings which accommodate luxury and budget tourists. It is even home to five Michelin-starred restaurants, which travelers should not miss out on. Atlas, Lazy Betty, Bacchanalia, Mujō and Hayakawa are the newly starred restaurants. Some locals favorites include the Vortex, Cafe Intermezzo and Octopus Kitchen.
Where to Stay: Tourists will be most comfortable (and within short distances of public transportation) in Decatur, Sandy Springs, Inman Park and Midtown.
Chicago
- Key Scenes: cityscape and outdoor shots
- Best Time to Visit: for ideal weather, from April through May or September through October
- Transportation Options: the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) offers bus and train services
Many scenes in Mea Culpa were filmed in Chicago, A.K.A the Windy City. The crime drama is set in Chicago, so it is no surprise that ultimately the city played a large part in the production of the film. The city is a beautiful destination which added a charming urban feel to Mea’s journey.
The downtown area and skyline of Chicago were mainly utilized for the filming. The big city ambiance was made real through the staggering buildings of Chicago. Travelers to Chicago commonly note its architecture, delectable culinary offerings, vibrant music (and art) scene and cultural significance make it a top travel destination.
Scenes captured a few different downtown areas that travelers might be interested to learn more about. There are a few regions that locals and travelers may be able to make out from the film. The city’s River West, West Loop and West Town are all places that are utilized in the movie.
These sides of Chicago are known for their unique offerings. They each have a unique mix of hipster, historic and central appeal. Travelers will find that these areas are scenic and provide a metropolitan feel both on the screen and in person. The scenes of Mea power walking to her high powered job, liaising through the city with Zyair and uncovering dirty secrets were shot there.
Things to Do: There is plenty for travelers to do if they want to explore the Chicago that was captured in “Mea Culpa”. Some popular options include a Chicago river cruise, Chicago food walking tours, Big Bus Chicago tours, guided Segway tours and even Chicago skyline helicopter tours.
Where to Eat: Chicago is known as a foodie town, so there is no lack of options for tourists. Alinea, Luella’s Southern Kitchen, Pat’s Pizza and Ristorante and Redhot Ranch are some classics in the Chicago area.
Where to Stay: The Chicago Loop (or Downtown) is the best place for tourists to stay while they tour the filming destination of the movie.