• Paradise Falls premiered internationally in Dubai on December 13.
  • First-ever Costa Rican-produced Spanish dubbing for an English film.
  • The film showcases Costa Rica’s talent and natural beauty.
  • Scheduled releases include Spain, India, and the United States.

The Costa Rican film Paradise Falls: A Christmas Story had its grand international premiere yesterday in Dubai, captivating audiences at the heart of the UAE’s cultural hub. This milestone marked a significant step for Costa Rica’s burgeoning film industry, with the movie being showcased at a world-class platform courtesy of the distributor Film Master LLC.

Originally premiering on December 12 across Costa Rica, Guatemala, Panama, and Mexico, Paradise Falls quickly extended its reach to the UAE, Oman, Qatar, Bahrain, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia the following day. Its international journey will continue with planned releases in Spain on January 1, 2025, and eventual premieres in countries such as the United States, India, and Chile.

The film was lauded not only for its enchanting storyline but also for its groundbreaking achievements. Produced entirely in English by the Costa Rican company Café Cinema, it featured an international cast, including Mexican-American actress Victoria Ulmos and American actor Linwood Yarborough, alongside Costa Rican stars Byron Ortega and Michelle de Matheu. Adding a unique touch, the Spanish dubbing was directed by Costa Rican actor Geyner Bermúdez, making it the first dubbing of its kind produced in Costa Rica with 100% local talent.

This Christmas tale, filmed against the lush backdrops of Ciudad Colón, tells the heartwarming story of Lucy, a spirited New Yorker who ventures to Costa Rica to surprise her grandfather and reignite the Christmas spirit in a town that has lost its festive charm. With its blend of holiday cheer and cultural essence, the film has resonated with diverse audiences, showcasing Costa Rica’s ability to craft stories with universal appeal.

Marysela Zamora Villalobos, Costa Rica Film Commissioner at PROCOMER, reflected on the film’s impact, stating, “The success of Paradise Falls internationally underlines Costa Rica’s potential as a hub for creative excellence. This achievement has not only elevated our film industry but also provided opportunities for small and medium enterprises in the country to contribute to the global stage.”

With its spectacular premiere in Dubai and a promising lineup of releases worldwide, Paradise Falls: A Christmas Story has positioned Costa Rica as a rising star in the global film industry while offering a heartwarming cinematic experience for viewers this holiday season.