Lifetime’s Murder at the Derby is a gripping 2025 thriller that has captivated audiences with its suspenseful plot and stunning visuals. Directed by Brittany Underwood, the film follows Kara Miller, a talented equestrian, as she navigates ambition, jealousy, and danger at the prestigious Silver Ridge Stables. At NetFilming, we dive into the authentic Kentucky locations that brought this story to life, offering readers a closer look at where the movie was filmed. From sprawling horse farms to charming small-town streets, the filming locations in Lexington and Wilmore, Kentucky, play a vital role in setting the stage for this thrilling tale.
What is Murder at the Derby About?
Murder at the Derby is a 2025 Lifetime thriller that centers on Kara Miller, a skilled young equestrian played by Ronni Hawk. Kara secures her dream job at Silver Ridge Stables in Lexington, Kentucky, training under the esteemed Jennifer Rosemont (Kate Watson). Her talent quickly earns her recognition, but it sparks jealousy in Jennifer’s brother, Stephen Rosemont (Daniel O’Reilly). Feeling threatened by Kara’s success, Stephen’s resentment escalates into dangerous actions, including a murder he tries to pin on her. The film weaves a suspenseful tale of ambition, betrayal, and survival, set against the vibrant world of horse racing. With its mix of drama and empowerment, the story builds to a thrilling climax at the fictional Lexington Derby, making it a must-watch for fans of Lifetime’s signature suspense.
Murder at the Derby Filming Locations
The entire production of Murder at the Derby took place in Kentucky, with principal photography spanning three weeks in October 2024. The crew chose Kentucky for its rich equestrian culture, ensuring the film’s visuals felt genuine. By focusing on real horse farms and racecourses, the team created an immersive experience that reflects the story’s core themes of competition and betrayal.
Lexington, Kentucky
Lexington, the seat of Fayette County, served as the primary filming location for Murder at the Derby. Known as the “Horse Capital of the World,” Lexington provided the perfect backdrop for a story centered around equestrian life. The crew filmed extensively at local horse farms, capturing their rolling fields and elegant stables to emphasize the “derby” element of the plot. These farms doubled as the fictional Silver Ridge Stables, where much of the drama unfolds.
The city’s landscapes were used for establishing shots, racecourse scenes, and outdoor sequences involving horses. To ensure authenticity, professional horse trainers were brought in to prepare the actors for their equestrian scenes. This attention to detail made the riding sequences realistic and engaging. Additionally, Lexington’s neighborhood streets appeared in several scenes, with characters interacting in the foreground. The crew used artificial lighting to enhance the aesthetic, adjusting it based on the time of day depicted in the story. Lexington’s vibrant mix of urban and rural settings made it an ideal choice for showcasing the film’s diverse visual needs.
Lexington has a history of attracting filmmakers. Movies like Seabiscuit and Secretariat have also utilized its equestrian heritage, cementing its status as a go-to location for horse-related stories.
Wilmore, Kentucky
In addition to Lexington, the production team filmed several outdoor scenes in Wilmore, a small town in Jessamine County. Wilmore’s quaint urban neighborhoods offered a refreshing contrast to the racecourse-heavy scenes shot in Lexington. The town’s tree-lined streets and community atmosphere provided diverse backdrops, adding variety to the film’s visual storytelling. This shift in scenery helped highlight different aspects of the narrative, from tense confrontations to quieter character moments.
Wilmore is home to Asbury Theological Seminary, a notable landmark, though it’s unclear if the campus itself was used in the film. The town’s serene environment allowed the crew to capture authentic small-town vibes, which complemented the story’s emotional depth. Wilmore’s inclusion also showcases Kentucky’s versatility as a filming destination, capable of supporting both rural and urban settings.
Kentucky’s appeal as a filming hub extends beyond Murder at the Derby. Recent projects like Wildcat, Red Right Hand, and Amber Alert have also been shot in the state, drawn by its scenic beauty and supportive film infrastructure. Wilmore’s contribution to the movie underscores why Kentucky remains a favorite among filmmakers seeking authentic American landscapes.
Murder at the Derby: Behind the Scenes
The production of Murder at the Derby was a collaborative effort that brought authenticity to its equestrian thriller narrative. Filmed over three weeks in October 2024 in Kentucky, the crew worked closely with local horse trainers to ensure realistic riding scenes. Director Brittany Underwood emphasized the importance of the setting, stating, “Lexington’s horse farms gave us an unmatched backdrop; their beauty grounded the story’s intensity.”
The cast, including Ronni Hawk, underwent rigorous training to handle horses confidently, adding credibility to their performances. Producer insights from Lifetime’s team highlighted the challenge of balancing suspense with visual appeal, noting, “We wanted every frame to feel alive, from the stables to the racecourse.” The use of artificial lighting and dynamic camera work enhanced the film’s dramatic tone, making it a standout in Lifetime’s 2025 lineup.
For more insights into your favorite movies and their filming locations, visit NetFilming, where we uncover the places that bring stories to life.
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