Led by “Riverdale” star Madelaine Petsch and “Bad Boys” franchise alum Jacob Scipio, Prime Video‘s “Maintenance Required” puts a fresh spin on the classic enemies-to-lovers trope. Weaving together car culture, corporate rivalry and an anonymous online romance, the film takes viewers on a journey from the historic industrial streets of England to the legendary coastal highways of California.
Shot during late summer 2024, the locations behind “Maintenance Required” do more than provide a pretty background; they mirror the story’s central conflict. England captures the gritty authenticity of the independent mechanics and industrial history; meanwhile, California represents the sleek corporate world and the open-road freedom of a budding romance. For movie buffs and travel enthusiasts alike, this mix of rugged industry and coastal sun offers the perfect blend of cinematic history and real-world adventure.
Check Out Big Sur, California, As Seen In ‘Maintenance Required’
Key Scenes: With sweeping aerial shots along Highway 1 and romantic coastal driving sequences, California proved to be an ideal filming location for this car-centered narrative. Many driving shots were captured south of Big Sur in Monterey County, as Sportkeeda reports.
Best Time to Visit: To catch Big Sur at its finest, aim for a trip between April and October. You will enjoy the best weather for those scenic drives and avoid the winter rainy season, which is known to force closures along the iconic Highway 1 occasionally.
Transportation Options: Since the open road defines Big Sur, and public transit is scarce, booking a rental car is essential. You will want the freedom to pull over at every scenic lookout. For the classic Highway 1 experience, you have two scenic options: drive south from Monterey (about 30 miles) or head north from San Luis Obispo (about 90 miles).
The film’s most breathtaking visuals come courtesy of California’s legendary Central Coast. According to Moviedelic, cinematographers spent September 2024 capturing sweeping aerial footage along Highway 1, showcasing the dramatic clash between rugged cliffs and the Pacific waves. This 90-mile coastal corridor is cinematic royalty. It has appeared in everything from “Basic Instinct” to “Ruby Sparks,” proving time and again that few American landscapes offer such grandeur.
For “Maintenance Required,” the serpentine roads serve as more than just scenery; they are a visual metaphor for the story’s winding, unexpected romantic journey. With its unmatched mix of wild ocean views, towering redwood groves, and intimate lodges, Big Sur is arguably one of the most visually stunning destinations in California. It is the kind of place where movie magic feels entirely real.
Things to Do: Head to Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park to see the iconic 80-foot McWay Falls, cascading directly onto the untouched beach below. No trip is complete without a stop at the Bixby Creek Bridge. Pull over to capture striking photos of one of the most famous bridges in California. If you want to get out of the car and stretch your legs, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is the place to explore massive redwoods and river trails.
Where to Eat: The California coast isn’t just a feast for the eyes – it’s a paradise for foodies, too. Start your day at Big Sur Roadhouse. Known for its unique ambiance, this spot serves up delicious breakfast dishes crafted from locally grown, organic ingredients. For a truly unforgettable meal, treat yourself to clifftop dining at Nepenthe, where the panoramic ocean views rival the food itself.
Where to Stay: If you are looking to splurge, Alila Ventana Big Sur is the ultimate choice. It offers a luxurious “glamping” experience nestled among the redwoods, complete with top-tier amenities. For a trip back in time, book a stay at Deetjen’s Big Sur Inn. It’s famous for its rustic charm, cozy wood cabins and old-world character.
San Francisco Filming Locations in ‘Maintenance Required’
Key Scenes: Many key scenes were captured in San Francisco, including the corporate headquarters exterior, waterfront moments, and urban romance sequences, per Moviedelic.
Best Time to Visit: Although San Francisco is a generally charming place to visit year-round, there are ideal travel times. Travelers can plan a visit between September and November for San Francisco’s warmest, sunniest weather. This is when the scenic views and incredible backdrops can be appreciated the most.
Transportation Options: The easiest entry point is San Francisco International Airport (SFO), a major hub serving flights from all over the world. Once you are in the city, you can often skip the rental car. San Francisco boasts excellent public transit via MUNI (buses and cable cars) and BART (rapid rail), making it simple to zip between neighborhoods.
The “Maintenance Required” production team used several iconic spots to capture the city’s slick, urban aesthetic. The unmistakable pointy silhouette of The Transamerica Pyramid (located at 600 Montgomery St) in the Financial District plays a key role. It doubles as the intimidating headquarters of the corporation that’s threatening Charlie’s shop on-screen. Elsewhere, to capture authentic city energy, the crew filmed along the waterfront at The Embarcadero, where ferries, tourists and commuters converge.
Beyond the movie set, San Francisco remains one of the most culturally rich and photogenic cities in the U.S. From cable cars climbing steep hills to the fog rolling over the Golden Gate Bridge, the city is packed with “Instagrammable” moments. Visitors can explore world-class museums, incredible cuisine and progressive cultural attractions.
Things to Do: Travelers can walk or bike across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. Then, explore the Ferry Building Marketplace for artisan foods and farmers’ markets. Afterward, take a cable car ride for a unique sightseeing opportunity or tour Alcatraz Island for some cultural exploration.
Where to Eat: For the quintessential SF experience, head to the historic Ferry Building. Hog Island Oyster Co. is the perfect spot to slurp down fresh, briny oysters while soaking in waterfront views of the Bay. If you are looking to splurge, Quince, a 3-Michelin-star gem in Jackson Square, offers an unforgettable, elevated California-Italian tasting menu.
Where to Stay: For luxury, book the historic Palace Hotel to enjoy a Gilded Age elegance. This landmark and pristine location has an unforgettable ambiance of refinement. Otherwise, choose the boutique Hotel Zephyr for waterfront convenience. This accommodation is renowned for its central location and stunning views.
Production Also Headed To Yorkshire, England
Key Scenes: According to Moviedelic, the production also set up shop across the Atlantic in the towns and cities of Yorkshire, specifically Leeds. This region served as the practical hub for many of the film’s interior and character moments:
Best Time to Visit: Travelers can plan a visit to Yorkshire during late spring through early autumn. This period, between May and September, is ideal for pleasant weather. However, it is important to note that summers are often hit with sweltering heat that is not aided by the lack of air conditioning in many buildings.
Transportation Options: England is famous for its excellent connectivity. You can easily rely on coaches, local trains or rideshare apps to navigate between towns and cities. If you are traveling from the capital, there are direct trains from London King’s Cross to Leeds. The journey is smooth and takes just about 2 hours and 15 minutes. Don’t forget the simplest way to travel! The area is very pedestrian-friendly, and like the locals, you’ll find that exploring on foot is often the best (and cheapest) way to soak in the sights.
“Maintenance Required” made full use of Yorkshire’s diverse landscapes, visiting two distinct towns to create the film’s visual world. The dynamic city of Leeds served as the perfect setting for the movie’s working-class roots. Its industrial character made it ideal for the automotive shop sequences. The production made its home at Versa Leeds Studio in the Holbeck area, utilizing its soundstages and amenities as the central hub for the cast and crew. In sharp contrast to Leeds, the nearby spa town of Harrogate offered a more polished aesthetic. With its Victorian architecture and tree-lined streets, this area provided elegant backdrops for specific character beats.
Things to Do: The cultural and historic grandeur of this region offers plenty to explore. The fascinating Royal Armouries Museum in Leeds houses one of the largest collections of arms and armor in the world. Just outside the city center, you can wander through Kirkstall Abbey, which boasts breathtakingly well-preserved medieval ruins set in a beautiful parkland. For a change of pace, stroll through the tranquil RHS Garden Harlow Carr, known for their hidden trails and stunning seasonal blooms.
Where to Eat: As visitors will discover, England is a melting pot of diverse cuisines and cultures. For casual dining, sample some iconic British cooking at Skyliner Fish and Chips in Leeds. Alternatively, indulge in Yorkshire’s famous afternoon tea tradition at Bettys Tea Rooms in Harrogate.
Where to Stay: Consider Dakota Leeds for sleek city-center accommodations. This upscale, full-service hotel has luxurious and fully air-conditioned rooms with modern finishes. Alternatively, choose the Adelphi Hotel in Harrogate for Victorian grandeur. This accommodation offers a central location and a rich history to explore.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is “Maintenance Required” about?
“Maintenance Required” tells the story of Charlie (Madelaine Petsch), who owns and operates an all-female auto repair shop. When a slick corporate chain opens directly across the street, her livelihood comes under threat. Seeking solace, Charlie turns to an online forum for car enthusiasts. There, she connects with someone who truly understands her passion for vehicles, a user named Beau (Jacob Scipio). Their digital chemistry is undeniable. However, Charlie doesn’t realize that Beau is actually the face of the very corporation trying to put her out of business.
What has Madelaine Petsch been in?
Madelaine Petsch rose to prominence playing Cheryl Blossom on The CW’s teen drama “Riverdale.” She has also starred in “The Strangers: Chapter 1” (which she also executive-produced) and its follow-up, “The Strangers: Chapter 2.”
