An international production choosing Costa Rica as its setting
Costa Rica is once again positioning itself on the global audiovisual industry map with the announcement of a new international film directed by Emmy-winning American filmmaker Abby Fuller.
The project, titled Hope, selected the country as its main filming location, with shoots scheduled in areas such as Pacayas and Bagaces. Production began in mid-April 2026 and is expected to last approximately five weeks.
The story is set in the early 2000s and follows an American teenager who travels to Costa Rica as part of an exchange program, exploring themes such as identity, cultural diversity, and human connection.
A growing industry driven by government incentives
This production is not an isolated event, but rather the result of a national strategy to attract foreign investment in the audiovisual sector.
The filming of Hope takes place under the framework of the Film Investment Attraction Law, a key instrument that offers incentives to attract international productions. This policy has been promoted by institutions such as PROCOMER and the Costa Rica Film Commission.
These initiatives aim to position the country as a competitive hub in the creative industry, facilitating logistics, permits, and connections with local talent.
Economic impact and local job creation
One of the main benefits of such productions is their direct impact on the national economy.
The project is expected to generate employment for more than 200 Costa Rican professionals, both in the cast and technical crew. In addition, it stimulates complementary sectors such as transportation, accommodation, food services, and logistics.
This multiplier effect strengthens local economies in the areas where filming takes place, creating opportunities beyond the film industry itself.
Costa Rica on the global audiovisual radar
The country has been steadily building its reputation as an attractive destination for international productions, not only because of its biodiversity and landscapes, but also due to its stability, skilled workforce, and legal framework.
In 2025, Costa Rica attracted more than $11 million through dozens of international audiovisual productions, demonstrating sustained growth in the sector.
Major production companies and global platforms are increasingly viewing the country as a viable option for high-level projects, reinforcing its position within the global creative economy.
A cultural showcase for the country
Beyond the economic impact, these productions also serve as a tool for international projection.
The film Hope will highlight Costa Rica’s cultural, social, and natural elements, showcasing its diversity and hospitality to a global audience. This type of exposure contributes to strengthening the country’s brand and boosting tourism.
Additionally, collaboration between international crews and local talent fosters knowledge exchange, supporting professional growth within Costa Rica’s audiovisual industry.
A step forward in consolidating the creative sector
The start of filming for this project reaffirms Costa Rica’s potential as a strategic destination for audiovisual production.
The combination of public policies, local talent, and favorable natural conditions continues to attract investment and international projects, positioning the country as an emerging player in the global film industry.
Such initiatives not only generate employment and stimulate the economy, but also strengthen cultural identity and international visibility.
Sources
- PROCOMER
- Costa Rica Film Commission
- Film Investment Attraction Law (Costa Rica)
- Original article published by CRHoy
- Delfino.cr – Audiovisual industry and filming of Hope
- La República – Economic impact of the production
- TicosLand – Analysis of the creative economy impact
