Most of Fargo (1996) takes place in Minnesota, where the film’s fictional kidnapping scheme and investigation unfold.
Joel and Ethan Coen wrote and directed the movie. The plot begins when Jerry Lundegaard hires criminals to kidnap his wife in order to obtain ransom money from her wealthy father. The plan quickly becomes violent and uncontrollable.
Although the title refers to Fargo, North Dakota, only the opening setup and some early meetings are associated with that city. Much of the action occurs in Minnesota locations such as Minneapolis, St. Louis Park, and Brainerd, where police chief Marge Gunderson investigates the murders.
The film’s snowy setting, regional speech patterns, and darkly comic tone are central to its identity. Contrary to its opening claim, Fargo is not based on a true story; the Coen brothers invented the central crime.