Netflix’s “Man on Fire” brings fresh energy to the classic revenge thriller story. The 2026 series stars Yahya Abdul-Mateen II as John Creasy, a haunted former Special Forces operative struggling with PTSD after a deadly mission. While working as a private security guard in Rio de Janeiro, Creasy becomes caught in a terrifying conspiracy after a bombing kills his close friend’s family. The only survivor is teenage daughter Poe, played by Billie Boullet. Creasy vows to protect her as she uncovers dangerous secrets of corruption and political violence. But where was “Man on Fire” filmed?
Production took place across Brazil and Mexico, with Rio de Janeiro serving as the story’s main backdrop while Mexico City handled large-scale studio work and action sequences. That combination gives the show a stylish mix of coastal beauty, crowded city streets and intense urban energy. Travelers can easily turn these filming locations into an unforgettable vacation. Brazil offers exciting beach culture, samba music and mountain views, while Mexico delivers incredible food, rich history and colorful neighborhoods. This guide highlights the best hotels, restaurants and attractions inspired by the thrilling destinations featured throughout the Netflix series.
How To Navigate Netflix’s Rio De Janeiro, Brazil Filming Locations
Key Scenes: Rio de Janeiro serves as the emotional heart of “Man on Fire.” Many exterior scenes were filmed throughout the city’s urban neighborhoods, coastal districts and hillside communities. Sweeping shots around Guanabara Bay helped establish the show’s dramatic setting. Several tense chase sequences also used Rio’s crowded streets and steep hillsides for realism. According to reports from 4Filming, the production sought authentic environments rather than relying heavily on studio sets. The series trailer showcases the city’s skyline, beaches and dense neighborhoods.
Best Time to Visit: Rio de Janeiro stays warm year-round, but the best time depends on your travel style. December through March brings beach weather and Carnival celebrations, so expect bigger crowds and higher hotel prices during that period. April through June offers cooler temperatures and fewer tourists, making it a preferred time for sightseeing. July and August attract surfers and outdoor adventurers because the skies stay sunny and pleasant. September through November offers mild weather and ideal hiking conditions. Visitors interested in nightlife and festivals will find summer the most exciting time to experience Rio’s famous atmosphere.
Transportation Options: Getting around Rio de Janeiro is fairly simple for tourists. Uber remains affordable and widely available across most neighborhoods. Many travelers use it instead of taxis because prices stay consistent. The MetroRio subway system works well for visiting tourist-heavy districts like Copacabana and Ipanema. Walking is enjoyable along the beachfront during daylight hours, but rental cars are less practical because traffic becomes intense near downtown areas. Visitors planning day trips outside Rio may still benefit from renting a vehicle. Local buses cover nearly every neighborhood, though first-time tourists sometimes find routes confusing.
For lead actor Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, embodying the lethal, PTSD-ridden John Creasy in an environment like Rio demanded a deep, grounded connection to the reinvented character. Reflecting on taking up the mantle in a conversation with Tudum, Abdul-Mateen remarked, “If I’m going to find a reason to do it, then it has to be personal, and it has to mean something to me.”
As Deadline reports, the high-octane filming for “Man on Fire” hit a temporary roadblock when Abdul-Mateen II was injured on set. While filming intense action sequences, the Emmy-winning star sustained a minor hand injury, prompting the production to pause briefly.
Things to Do: Rio offers endless adventures beyond “Man on Fire” filming locations. Start with a visit to iconic Christ the Redeemer for panoramic city views. Travelers also love riding the cable car up Sugarloaf Mountain during sunset. Beach lovers shouldn’t miss relaxing at Copacabana Beach and Ipanema Beach. Adventurous visitors can hike through Tijuca National Park, one of the world’s largest urban rainforests. The colorful Selarón Steps also make a fantastic photo stop. Samba clubs in the Lapa district keep the city lively late into the night.
Where to Eat: Rio’s food scene blends Brazilian comfort dishes with fresh seafood and upscale dining. Aprazível offers gorgeous hillside views alongside traditional Brazilian recipes. Travelers seeking steakhouse culture should try Fogo de Chão for endless cuts of grilled meat. Oro delivers one of the city’s top fine-dining experiences with creative tasting menus. Beachfront cafés in Ipanema serve refreshing açaí bowls and tropical drinks throughout the day. Seafood lovers should order moqueca, a flavorful Brazilian fish stew. Street vendors also sell excellent pão de queijo and grilled skewers.
Where to Stay: Rio offers accommodations for every type of traveler. Copacabana Palace remains the city’s most iconic luxury hotel. The beachfront property attracts celebrities and international visitors year-round. Travelers seeking modern boutique-style accommodations should consider Hotel Fasano Rio de Janeiro in Ipanema. Budget-conscious visitors often enjoy hostels near Copacabana Beach because the locations stay central and lively. Families may prefer Barra da Tijuca for quieter surroundings and larger hotels, and many properties include rooftop pools overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
Mexico City Played A Crucial Role In Bringing ‘Man On Fire’ To The Small Screen
Key Scenes: Although Rio serves as the primary setting, Mexico City became the production hub for many major scenes in “Man on Fire.” Filmmakers used the city’s studio infrastructure and urban districts to create large-scale action sequences. According to Soap Central, Mexico City allowed crews to manage complicated stunt work more efficiently. Some scenes that appear to take place in Brazil were actually filmed in Mexico. The city’s versatile architecture made those transitions seamless on screen.
Best Time to Visit: Mexico City enjoys pleasant weather during much of the year. March through May offers sunny skies and comfortable temperatures, while other travelers consider spring the ideal time for sightseeing. October and November feature cooler evenings and colorful Day of the Dead celebrations. Travelers hoping to enjoy museums, parks and nightlife comfortably will find spring and fall especially enjoyable for exploring the capital.
Transportation Options: Mexico City provides several transportation choices for tourists. Uber remains one of the easiest and safest ways to navigate the sprawling capital. The Metro system stays extremely affordable and connects many major neighborhoods quickly. Travelers should avoid rush hour whenever possible, as trains can become crowded. Walking works well in areas like Roma, Condesa and Polanco, where sidewalks remain pedestrian-friendly. Taxis are available throughout the city, though visitors often prefer rideshare apps for convenience. Rental cars can become stressful due to intense traffic congestion. Bike-sharing programs also operate across several trendy districts within central Mexico City.
Decked Out Magazine reports that, to capture the gritty atmosphere of the city’s streets, the production team behind “Man on Fire” utilized a technique known as “location patching,” blending actual on-location filming in Brazil with extensive set pieces shot in Mexico City.
“We were working mostly in Mexico City and it needed to work for Rio de Janeiro, which it did,” VFX Supervisor Kevin Lingenfelser told What’s On Netflix. “We had to be cognizant if there was Spanish signage anywhere in the shots; we had to change those to Portuguese.”
Things to Do: Travelers should visit Zócalo (officially Plaza de la Constitución), one of the world’s largest public squares. Nearby, Palacio de Bellas Artes showcases breathtaking architecture and performances. Art fans love exploring the Frida Kahlo Museum in the colorful Coyoacán neighborhood. Chapultepec Park provides museums, lakes and green space in the middle of the city. Food markets like Mercado Roma also attract younger travelers. Nightlife thrives in Roma and Condesa, where rooftop bars stay busy after dark.
Where to Eat: Mexico City ranks among the world’s best food destinations. Pujol remains one of the city’s most celebrated fine-dining restaurants. Travelers craving authentic tacos should visit El Vilsito, famous for al pastor, while Contramar serves outstanding seafood dishes in a lively setting. Street food also deserves attention throughout the capital. Vendors sell tamales, churros and quesadillas on nearly every corner, and coffee shops in Roma and Condesa attract digital nomads and younger tourists.
Where to Stay: For an unforgettable stay, Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City delivers luxury near Paseo de la Reforma. Travelers seeking boutique-style often choose La Valise Mexico City in Roma Norte. InterContinental Presidente Mexico City provides upscale comfort in Polanco near museums and shopping. Budget travelers can find affordable boutique hotels throughout Condesa.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is “Man on Fire” (2026) a remake?
Yes. The Netflix series adapts A.J. Quinnell’s 1980 novel. It follows earlier film versions released in 1987 and 2004. The 2026 series introduces a new storyline and setting centered around Rio de Janeiro.
Will there be a season two of “Man of Fire”?
While it hasn’t yet been officially renewed, both showrunner Kyle Killen and lead star Yahya Abdul-Mateen II have expressed a strong interest in returning, What’s on Netflix reports. They’ve hinted that a potential season two could shift the setting to Mexico City to explore John Creasy’s pre-trauma history and the ghosts of his past.
