Stars of the new Disney Plus series "The Testaments" have shared their experiences filming in Toronto, Canada. Actors discussed their favorite local spots, interactions with the production crew, and how the city influenced their performances in the highly anticipated show.

Embracing Toronto Life

The cast, including Chicago native Chase Infiniti, Ann Dowd, and Lucy Halliday, spent considerable time in Toronto over the summer while shooting the series. Based on Margaret Atwood's novel, "The Testaments" delves into themes of voice, identity, and resistance against oppression.

Infiniti, known for her role in "One Battle After Another," expressed joy in being part of a project that has garnered significant attention. Halliday highlighted the crucial support from the Toronto-based crew, which even assisted her in perfecting a Canadian accent. Dowd, a veteran of "The Handmaid's Tale," shared her affection for Toronto, mentioning her appreciation for local retailers like Winners and Value Village.

On-Set and Off-Set Connections

The cast's integration into Toronto extended beyond the studio. They were observed enjoying local activities such as attending Blue Jays games, visiting parks, and dining at local restaurants, demonstrating a genuine immersion into the city's lifestyle.

Halliday specifically noted the invaluable advice and encouragement she received from star Elisabeth Moss. Moss's guidance was instrumental as Halliday stepped into her role, providing reassurance in a world already familiar to many fans of Atwood's work.

Character Insights and Thematic Depth

The series' first three episodes are now available on Disney Plus. In the premiere, Elisabeth Moss's character, June Osborne, enlists Daisy (Halliday) to join the Mayday resistance.

Infiniti portrays Agnes, one of the "Plum Girls," who narrates the series, while Halliday plays a "Pearl Girl." The show critically examines the struggle for voice and identity within the totalitarian Republic of Gilead.

Infiniti emphasized the vital importance of maintaining one's voice, especially when confronting oppressive forces. Halliday shared her personal experience of adapting to the local accent during filming. The cast also noted how the series' exploration of women in restrictive societies, drawing from historical realities, resonated deeply with them, as did the support from author Margaret Atwood.

The cast's enthusiasm for "The Testaments" was evident, with their anecdotes from Toronto offering a glimpse into the collaborative and culturally rich environment that shaped the production.