Camila Mendes and Leslie Bibb Start 'Upgraded 2' Filming in Venice

Principal photography for "Upgraded 2" began in Venice on October 21. The production stars Camila Mendes and Leslie Bibb. The film is a sequel to the 2024 romantic comedy "Upgraded." Amazon MGM Studios is developing the project.

The story follows Ana Santos, a character played by Mendes. In the first film, she was an intern at a New York auction house. In the sequel, she is attempting to make her mark in the art world. The plot centers on the Venice Biennale. This is the world's oldest contemporary art fair. Becca Gleason is directing the film. She took over from Carlson Young, who directed the original.

The crew is currently filming in specific locations around the lagoon. Shots are being captured on the terrace of Ca’ Giustinian. This building serves as the headquarters for the Biennale. It overlooks the Grand Canal. The team is also working in the Palazzo Franchetti. This neo-Gothic building near the Accademia bridge functions as an exhibition space. Filming is also taking place at the Moro Venice restaurant.

Leslie Bibb is confirmed as a star of the sequel. Her specific role has not been announced yet. Archie Renaux returns as William, the wealthy Englishman. Luke Roberts and Justin Matthews wrote the screenplay. They also wrote the script for the first film.

The production has a 45-day schedule in Italy. Venice will host the first 12 days of shooting. The crew will then move to Rome. They plan to spend 33 days filming there. This information comes from Italy for Movies. This is the national portal for film production incentives in Italy.

Luca Tranchino is the production designer. He previously worked on "Prison Break" and "Domina." The Italian company Colorado Film serves as executive producer. Mike Karz and Bill Bindley are producers for Gulfstream Pictures. Mendes and Rachel Matthews are producing for Honor Role. Lena Roklin is producing for Luber Roklin Entertainment. Piers Tempest is producing for Tempo Production.