New York City

Lore & Background

The city is known as a nexus where magical ley lines converge unexpectedly due to the sheer density of human activity. This energy attracts spirits and entities seeking to cross over into the material plane, often drawn to specific locations like old subway stations or abandoned warehouses that hold residual power.

Throughout the decades, various cults have attempted to use the urban landscape for rituals, frequently utilizing construction sites or neglected infrastructure as sanctuaries. The B.P.R.D. has intervened numerous times to prevent catastrophic breaches that could endanger millions of civilians living above ground, often engaging in covert operations unseen by the public.

In Their Own Story

Rain slicked the pavement as the red demon walked through the alleyway, his heavy boots echoing against the brickwork. Neon signs buzzed overhead, reflecting in puddles that seemed unnaturally deep for their size. He paused near a rusted grate, his right hand twitching slightly as he sensed a disturbance in the air. Somewhere down there, something ancient was waking up, drawn by the city's restless heartbeat.

Reader's Guide

New York City serves as a critical backdrop for many of the Bureau's most dangerous investigations. While the main headquarters often shifts locations in secrecy, the metropolis remains a primary hub for field agents monitoring supernatural activity. The dense population and complex infrastructure provide ample cover for occult entities to operate unnoticed by the general public.

For fans, this setting highlights the contrast between mundane urban life and the looming apocalypse. It grounds the mythological elements in a recognizable reality, making the intrusion of ancient evils more visceral. From subway tunnels to penthouse apartments, every corner holds potential danger or hidden history for the team to uncover.

Ultimately, the city represents the thin veil between our world and the supernatural dimensions that constantly press against it. Its resilience in the face of repeated attacks underscores the dedication of those who protect humanity from the shadows lurking beneath the pavement.

Did You Know?

• The list of films set in New York begins with 'What Happened on Twenty-third Street, New York City' from 1901.
• 'Electrocuting an Elephant' (1903) is included in the list of films set in New York.
• Several films from 1928, including 'The Cameraman', 'The Crowd', 'Speedy', and 'Lonesome', each have a scene at Coney Island.
• The list includes films through the present day, though it does not include unconfirmed future releases such as 'The Bride!', 'The Devil Wears Prada 2', or an untitled Spider-Man film.
• The list is sorted by the year the film was released, from the 1900s to the 2020s.