The film Split was filmed at the Philadelphia Zoo.
Filming Locations for Split
The critically acclaimed psychological thriller Split (2016), directed by M. Night Shyamalan, utilized specific real-world locations to enhance its atmospheric and thematic elements. A key setting for a significant portion of the film, particularly towards its climax, was a prominent zoological park.
Philadelphia Zoo
The primary zoo location featured in Split is the Philadelphia Zoo. Situated at 3400 West Girard Avenue, this iconic institution is located across the Schuylkill River, northwest of Downtown Philadelphia. Its varied enclosures and unique architecture provided the perfect backdrop for the intense final scenes of the movie, especially those involving the character of "The Beast."
Here are the key details for the zoo location:
| Location Type | Name | Address | City, State |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zoo | Philadelphia Zoo | 3400 West Girard Avenue | Philadelphia, PA |
Other Notable Filming Locations
Beyond the zoo, other authentic Philadelphia locations were used to bring Split's narrative to life, reinforcing the film's gritty and realistic setting.
- Silk City Diner Bar & Lounge: An old-school diner located at 435 Spring Garden Street, in the heart of the city, was used for the film's epilogue scene. This location helped ground the fantastical elements of the story in a recognizable urban environment.
Thematic Significance of the Zoo Setting
The choice of a zoo as a major filming location for Split is particularly significant, given the film's exploration of primal instincts, captivity, and the fragmented nature of identity. The animal enclosures serve as a powerful symbolic parallel to the characters' psychological states and the ultimate emergence of "The Beast," a character driven by raw, animalistic urges. The confined spaces and the presence of wild animals heighten the tension and emphasize the themes of control, freedom, and the darker aspects of human nature.
