Hulu’s psychological horror film Control Freak was released on March 13, 2025, and is directed and written by Shal Ngo. The film expands on his 2021 short film Control from Hulu’s Bite Size Halloween series. The movie stars Kelly Marie Tran as Valerie “Val” Nguyen, a successful motivational speaker who begins experiencing an unrelenting itch on the back of her head. What starts as a minor annoyance spirals into something far more sinister as she battles a parasitic demon tied to her Vietnamese heritage, known as the Sanshi—a creature from folklore that feeds on its host, driving them to destructive compulsions.
The film blends psychological horror with body horror elements, exploring themes like mental illness, generational trauma, perfectionism, and the pressures of self-help culture. Val’s public persona as a poised, in-control figure clashes with her private unraveling, amplified by her strained relationships with her husband Robbie (Miles Robbins), her estranged father Sang (Toan Le), a former soldier turned monk, and her aunt Thuy (Kieu Chinh). The story delves into her past, including a traumatic boating accident that killed her mother, which seems to connect to her current torment.
At NetFilming, we’re exploring the filming locations of this eerie gem to provide you with insights into its haunting backdrops. Let’s get into it!
Hulu’s Control Freak Filming Locations
Control Freak was meticulous in selecting locations that heighten the sense of dread. The crew hit up three cities—Los Angeles, California; Covington, Kentucky; and Cincinnati, Ohio—to bring this tale to life. Filming kicked off on April 8, 2024, and wrapped by May 3, 2024. That’s a tight schedule, but they nailed it, using each place to crank up the tension. Wide-open spaces scream isolation, while shadowy interiors trap you in Valerie’s headspace. Let’s break it down city by city!
Los Angeles, California: The Big City with Big Vibes
First up, Los Angeles—the king of movie magic. Filmmakers naturally gravitate towards this location, and Control Freak took full advantage of it. They shot in Downtown LA around Broadway and 7th Street, where old-school buildings mix with modern hustle. It’s the perfect spot to show Valerie’s polished public life clashing with her inner chaos. Then there’s Echo Park Lake on Echo Park Avenue—a chill mix of homes and shops that grounds her personal story.
Want something creepier? They used Griffith Park on Crystal Springs Drive too. Those quiet, tucked-away corners add a layer of unease that perfectly fits the film’s mood. LA’s hosted tons of classics—think Blade Runner or La La Land—and Control Freak taps into that legacy. The city’s vibe helps build Valerie’s world, making her descent into paranoia hit harder. If you’re searching for where this horror flick got its urban edge, LA’s your answer.
Covington, Kentucky: Small Town, Big Scares
Next, we’ve got Covington, Kentucky—a hidden gem with tons of character. This spot’s got history dripping from its old buildings and cozy streets. The crew filmed in MainStrasse Village on West Sixth Street, where classic architecture sets a moody tone. They also hit Roebling Point on Court Street, using local shops and bridges to make Valerie’s world feel real—and really unsettling.
Covington’s vintage charm isn’t new to Hollywood. Movies like Rain Man and Carol were shot here too, and Control Freak keeps that tradition alive. The city’s bridges, particularly the John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge, are truly remarkable. Linking Covington to Cincinnati over the Ohio River, this 1866 landmark is a stunner—and a perfect spot for creepy scenes. It’s got that old-world feel that ties into the film’s folklore roots, making Valerie’s paranoia pop. Covington’s a goldmine for horror fans hunting for filming spots!
Cincinnati, Ohio: Grit Meets Gloom
Last but not least, Cincinnati, Ohio, brings its own flavor to Control Freak. This city’s got a mix of gritty industrial roots and lively culture, and the film uses both. They shot in Over-the-Rhine on Vine Street, where cobblestone streets and historic vibes scream character. Union Terminal on Western Avenue adds a massive, almost eerie contrast—perfect for Valerie’s unraveling mind.
For something quieter, Mount Adams on Celestial Street gave the crew intimate, tense settings. Cincinnati’s no stranger to the big screen either—think Traffic or Dark Waters. Here, it’s all about blending old and new to mirror Valerie’s struggle. The locations feel lived-in yet off-kilter, boosting the film’s psychological punch. If you’re wondering where Control Freak gained its edge, Cincinnati plays a significant role.
Why These Spots Work So Well
So, why’d they pick these three cities? It’s all about vibe. Los Angeles gives you that sleek, modern feel—great for showing Valerie’s public face. Covington’s got that small-town charm with a dark twist, tying into her family’s past. Cincinnati blends it all with its raw, layered energy, reflecting her inner mess. Together, they create a world that’s isolating yet suffocating—exactly what a psychological horror needs. The crew turned tight schedules and travel into a win, making every shot count.
Extra Tidbits to Love
Not only is the Roebling Bridge aesthetically pleasing, but it also serves as a haven for history enthusiasts. Built in 1866, it was a test run for the Brooklyn Bridge. Cool, huh? And LA’s Griffith Park? It’s massive—over 4,000 acres—so finding creepy corners was a breeze. These little details add depth to Control Freak, making it more than just a scare fest. At NetFilming, we enjoy exploring the intricacies of a film, and these locations significantly contribute to its allure.
What’s Control Freak All About?
Valerie has it all—charisma, success, and an idyllic life. But when that itch starts, everything unravels. Her husband Robbie (Miles Robbins) can only watch as she spirals, while her dad Sang (Toan Le) and Aunt Thuy (Kieu Chinh) hint at a dark family past. This isn’t just a horror movie—it’s a wild ride through mental struggles, generational baggage, and some seriously freaky body horror (think ants under your skin—yikes!). The settings play a huge role, making Valerie’s fight feel even more intense. So, where did they shoot this unsettling masterpiece?
Control Freak Official Trailer
Control Freak on Hulu is not just a thrilling horror experience, but also a masterful use of locations to weave a compelling narrative. Got thoughts on the movie or its filming spots? Drop them below—I’d love to hear what you think!
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