The thriller GIRL IN THE ATTIC on Lifetime tells a scary story of obsession, captivity and strength. Kelsey, played by Sophia Carriere, is a young woman who is sad about the death of her mother. She plans to run a marathon and use social media to raise money for her. Her well-meaning posts, however, draw the attention of Billy (portrayed by Keenan Tracey), a grocery store clerk who becomes dangerously obsessed with her. After stalking her movements, Billy abducts Kelsey and imprisons her in the attic of the home he shares with his mother, Debbie (Jean Louisa Kelly), a former dancer now wheelchair-bound. Over years of torment and manipulation, Kelsey survives the ordeal until Debbie discovers the horrifying truth and joins her in a desperate attempt at escape.
IS GIRL IN THE ATTIC BASED ON A TRUE STORY?
Although GIRL IN THE ATTIC is not a direct retelling of a single real-life case, it is inspired by real stories, according to Lifetime and cast interviews. In a televised segment featuring actress Jean Louisa Kelly, the film was described as “a new thriller inspired by real stories.” Kelly, who plays the conflicted mother Debbie, mentioned how emotionally taxing the role was—playing a woman who learns her own son is capable of unimaginable crimes.
This fits with Lifetime’s usual way of telling stories, which is to take ideas from a number of real-life cases of kidnapping, captivity, and long-term abuse and turn them into fictional stories. The psychological horror in the movie is similar to well-known cases like the kidnappings of Jaycee Dugard, Elizabeth Fritzl, and Colleen Stan. In these cases, victims were held captive in small spaces for years by people who seemed normal.
Even though it’s a story, GIRL IN THE ATTIC is based on—real events in a way that makes it emotional and shows how predators control and manipulate their victims while pretending to be normal. This upsetting truth is used by the movie to create a story that is both suspenseful and relevant to society.
GIRL IN THE ATTIC FILMING LOCATIONS
The haunting atmosphere of GIRL IN THE ATTIC owes much to its filming location: Kelowna, a city in British Columbia, Canada. Known for its picturesque surroundings and diverse architectural styles, Kelowna served as the perfect backdrop for a story that is confined, emotionally intense, and visually contrasting.
Kelowna, British Columbia
Filming took place in early March 2025 and was completed by the end of the same month. The house where Kelsey is being held is where most of the movie takes place. The production team chose the Charles Harvey House at 715 Sutherland Avenue, Kelowna, because it is a historical building with a lot of character and depth. This brick, two-and-a-half-story home was built in 1908 and has a unique mix of Queen Anne and Foursquare styles.
The old-fashioned beauty and slightly worn-down exterior of the house add to the creepy sense of being trapped and—kept secret. Because of its history, charm and many layers of texture, it’s a great physical representation of Billy and Debbie’s broken and dysfunctional home life. The attic, in particular, stands for trauma and being trapped that is hidden.
Why Kelowna?
Kelowna is a favorite among filmmakers due to its blend of urban infrastructure, natural beauty, and historic charm. Nestled between Okanagan Lake and the surrounding mountains, the city provides a scenic yet unsettling duality that complements the psychological tension of Lifetime thrillers.
The location also offers logistical advantages. British Columbia’s tax incentives for film and television—combined with its experienced crews and scenic variety, make it an ideal production hub. Kelowna has played host to several other productions over the years—including independent films, thrillers, and romance dramas.
Kelowna’s Best Features:
Charles Harvey House: The film’s central location, giving authenticity and gothic tension to the narrative.
Downtown Kelowna: A blend of modern commercial spots and older architectural landmarks.
Okanagan Lake: Although not featured heavily, the serene natural surroundings contrast the film’s internal horror.
Local vineyards and parks: These landscapes form a sharp visual contrast to the confined, shadowy interiors of the attic.
With its mountains, pine forests, provincial parks and lavender farms, Kelowna is a great place for movies that want to make people feel strong emotions.
GIRL IN THE ATTIC OFFICIAL TRAILER
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