Lifetime’s gripping movie Girl in the Garage: The Laura Cowan Story tells the harrowing yet inspiring journey of Laura Cowan, a mother and wife, who finds herself trapped in an unimaginable nightmare.
The movie is a testament to resilience and courage, offering viewers a compelling look into a true story of survival.
Where Was Girl in the Garage: The Laura Cowan Story Filmed? 🎥
The film was primarily shot in Missouri, with significant scenes captured in Kansas City and its surrounding areas.
Even though the storyline unfolds in locations like LA and Ohio, Missouri’s diverse landscapes and urban settings served as perfect stand-ins. Here are the key filming spots:
Location | Details |
---|---|
Kansas City, Missouri | Major scenes filmed in the historic Westport neighborhood and Swope Park. |
Overland Park, Kansas | Scenes shot at Monstera’s Books on Floyd Street. |
According to producer Corey McCartney, Kansas City was chosen because its varied landscapes could effectively mimic different cities. This flexibility allowed the production to create authentic-looking backdrops while staying within budget.

Key Filming Trivia 🌟
- Timeline: The movie was filmed between October and early November 2024.
- Atmosphere: The dark and gritty feel of the garage scenes was enhanced by the cold weather during filming in Missouri.
- Local Impact: Monstera’s Books in Overland Park was transformed for key scenes, attracting attention from local residents.

The Cast of Girl in the Garage: The Laura Cowan Story 🎮
The film’s emotional weight is carried by an exceptional cast, each bringing depth to their characters:
1. Paige Hurd as Laura Cowan
Known for her roles in Power Book II: Ghost and Everybody Hates Chris, Paige delivers a powerful performance as Laura, a mother fighting for her children’s safety and her own survival.
2. Brad James as Shabazz
Brad portrays Laura’s husband, whose arrest sets the story in motion. Fans might recognize him from Outer Banks and For Better or Worse.
3. Stephen Bishop as Musa
Musa, the antagonist, is played by Stephen Bishop, famous for his roles in Moneyball and Being Mary Jane. His chilling portrayal adds to the film’s tension.
4. Shanica Knowles as Zara
Shanica, known from Hannah Montana and The Young and the Restless, shines as a supporting character pivotal to the narrative.
The Heart of the Story 🌈
When Laura’s husband is arrested, a seemingly kind friend, Musa, offers her shelter. However, his intentions are sinister.
Laura and her children are imprisoned in his garage, enduring years of abuse. Despite the horror, Laura’s determination to document her ordeal and alert authorities ultimately saves her family and other victims.

Final Thoughts 🎨
Girl in the Garage: The Laura Cowan Story is more than just a film; it’s a tribute to survival and courage.
The carefully chosen locations, combined with a stellar cast, bring Laura’s story to life in a way that’s both haunting and inspiring.
Whether you’re drawn to it for its powerful performances or its compelling narrative, this Lifetime movie is sure to leave an impact.
FAQs About Girl in the Garage: The Laura Cowan Story
Where can I watch the movie?
The film premieres on Lifetime on January 18, 2025.
Is the movie based on a true story?
Yes, it’s inspired by the real-life story of Laura Cowan.
What is the runtime of the film?
The movie has a runtime of approximately 90 minutes.
What’s the primary filming location?
Most of the filming took place in Kansas City, Missouri.
Who directed the film?
The movie was directed by Manu Boyer.
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