Alex Cross (2012) is a gripping crime thriller directed by Rob Cohen, adapted from James Patterson’s 2006 novel Cross.
The movie marks Tyler Perry’s departure from his comedic roles, as he takes on the serious and intense character of Dr. Alex Cross.
Joined by Matthew Fox, who plays the chilling antagonist Picasso, the story delves into the psychological and moral challenges of a homicide detective pushed to his limits.
With its intriguing narrative, Alex Cross weaves a visually stunning backdrop, utilizing diverse and picturesque filming locations.
This article explores the filming sites, cast details, and fascinating trivia behind the movie.
Alex Cross Filming Locations:
| Location | Description | Notable Scenes |
|---|---|---|
| Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, Ohio | Historic mansion in Akron, Ohio | Detective meeting Giles Mercier |
| Glendale Cemetery, Ohio | Scenic cemetery in Akron, Ohio | Maria’s burial scene |
| Michigan Building, Detroit | Historic theater in Detroit, MI | Final fight scene between Alex and Picasso |
| Cleveland Heights, Ohio | Suburban area in Northeast Ohio | Alex Cross’s family home scenes |
| Côte d’Azur, France | Luxurious Riviera coastal region | Beach house scene (depicting Bali, Indonesia) |
Key Filming Locations
1. Northeast Ohio (USA)
The film extensively uses locations in Northeast Ohio to portray Detroit, Michigan, where Alex Cross is employed by the Detroit Police Department.
- Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, Akron, OH
- Scene: Mansion of Giles Mercier (Jean Reno).
- Details: This century-old historic estate served as a perfect backdrop for scenes depicting grandeur and intrigue. Its lush gardens and stately architecture enhanced the movie’s visual appeal.
- Glendale Cemetery, Akron, OH
- Scene: Maria’s burial after Picasso’s attack.
- Details: This serene cemetery, adorned with mature trees and rolling landscapes, set the tone for one of the movie’s most poignant and emotional sequences.
- Cleveland Heights, OH
- Scene: Home of Alex Cross and Detective Tommy Kane.
- Details: The charming suburb with its rich history provided a cozy yet dramatic setting for the film’s domestic scenes.
2. Detroit, Michigan (USA)
While much of Detroit was portrayed using Ohio locations, some scenes were filmed in the city itself.
- Michigan Building, 220 Bagley St
- Scene: Final fight between Alex Cross and Picasso.
- Details: The historic Michigan Theater, converted into an office space, was used for this climactic scene. Its Renaissance Revival architecture added a dramatic flair to the intense showdown.
3. Côte d’Azur (France)
- Scene: Beach house where Giles Mercier resides (pretending to be Bali).
- Details: This iconic Mediterranean region, known for its luxury and scenic beauty, stood in for Bali in the film.
Fun Facts & Trivia
- Alex Cross’s Relocation: Unlike the novels where Alex Cross resides in Washington, D.C., the film portrays him as living in Detroit, Michigan. This change added a fresh dynamic to the character’s story.
- Tyler Perry’s Role Transformation: Best known for comedic roles like Madea, Perry showcased his versatility in this intense, action-packed film.
- Production Timeline: Filming began in Ohio and later moved to Detroit for two weeks to capture the city’s authenticity.
Key Filming Highlights:-
| Scene | Filming Location | Travel Details |
|---|---|---|
| Alex’s Family Home | Cleveland Heights, Ohio | Accessible via US-322 E/Mayfield Rd from downtown Cleveland |
| Detective Meeting Scene | Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, Akron, OH | Approx. 40-minute drive via I-77 S from Cleveland |
| Maria’s Burial Scene | Glendale Cemetery, Akron, OH | Off Glendale Ave, 10-minute drive from Stan Hywet Gardens |
| Final Fight Scene | Michigan Building, Detroit, MI | 13-minute walk from downtown Detroit |
| Beach House Scene | Côte d’Azur, France | Fly to Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, then drive to Riviera |
Cast Details
- Director: Rob Cohen
- Writers: Marc Moss, Kerry Williamson, James Patterson
- Stars:
- Tyler Perry as Alex Cross
- Matthew Fox as Picasso
- Rachel Nichols as Monica Ashe
- Edward Burns as Detective Tommy Kane
- Carmen Ejogo as Maria Cross
Visiting the Filming Locations
Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens
- Address: 714 N Portage Path, Akron, OH 44303, USA.
- Highlights: Take a guided tour to explore the grand estate, gardens, and historical architecture.
Glendale Cemetery
- Address: 150 Glendale Ave, Akron, OH 44302, USA.
- Tip: Respect the site’s sanctity as it remains an active burial ground.
Michigan Building
- Address: 220 Bagley St, Detroit, MI 48226, USA.
- Notable Feature: Renaissance Revival architecture makes this a must-visit for history and film enthusiasts.
Final Thoughts
While Alex Cross didn’t achieve blockbuster success, it offered a compelling narrative paired with visually stunning locations.
Tyler Perry’s portrayal of Alex Cross introduced fans to a new dimension of his acting skills, while the film’s settings provided a rich cinematic experience.
Whether you’re a fan of crime thrillers or a film-location enthusiast, exploring the picturesque spots featured in Alex Cross can be a rewarding journey.
For those curious about Tyler Perry’s dramatic transformation or Matthew Fox’s chilling performance, Alex Cross is worth a watch, despite its mixed reviews.
As for the filming locations, the historical and scenic sites in Ohio and France are undeniably worth a visit.
FAQ
Where was Alex Cross filmed?
The primary locations were in Northeast Ohio (Cleveland Heights, Akron), Detroit, and Côte d’Azur in France.
Can I visit the filming locations?
Yes! Many locations like Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens and Glendale Cemetery in Ohio are accessible to the public.
What role does the Michigan Building play in the movie?
It served as the site of the climactic final battle between Alex Cross and Picasso.
Was Alex Cross filmed in Washington, D.C., as in the books?
No, the film chose Detroit as the main setting, deviating from the original novels.
Is Alex Cross worth watching?
While it received mixed reviews, it’s worth watching for fans of Tyler Perry in a serious role and for the stunning filming locations.