Deepak Sikka, the executive producer of hit films like “The King’s Speech” and “First Reformed,” has now joined the first fiction co-production between the U.K. and Costa Rica, titled “Black Gold.” This project marks a significant collaboration between the two countries and aims to highlight Latin American stories in the film industry.
Gramercy Park Media co-founder Joshua Harris, London-based Costa Rican actor Jose Palma, and San Jose-based producer Esteban Quesada are also on board for this groundbreaking production. Palma, who plays a key role in the film as former Costa Rican president José MarÃa Montealegre, expressed his enthusiasm for shedding light on his country’s history and reflecting on the present through this project.
“Black Gold” is a historical drama set in mid-19th-century Costa Rica, showcasing the role of coffee in the country’s fight for freedom. The film aims to be the largest production in Costa Rica’s history, bringing a unique story to the screen that has never been explored in Costa Rican cinema before.
The screenplay for “Black Gold” is being co-written by a female Costa Rican writer alongside Jeremy Sheldon, head of development for “First Reformed.” Costa Rican casting director Kim Picado Gutiérrez is also on board to bring the characters to life on screen.
The story of “Black Gold” revolves around Costa Rican President Juan Rafael Mora’s efforts to protect his nation from American filibuster William Walker. Set in 1855, the film follows Mora’s journey from a reformist coffee planter to a national leader, navigating love, loss, and betrayal in a time of war.
Palma emphasized the importance of showcasing dual perspectives in the film, focusing not only on Mora but also on his wife, Inés. Through their experiences, the narrative aims to capture the emotional depth and historical significance of the period.
With the collaboration of talented individuals like Deepak Sikka and Jeremy Sheldon, “Black Gold” represents a significant moment for Costa Rican cinema. The project seeks to rewrite history from a Latin American perspective and bring a sense of gravity and nuance to the storytelling process.
As production progresses on “Black Gold,” the team is dedicated to creating a compelling and authentic portrayal of Costa Rica’s rich history and the struggles faced by its people. This project is a testament to the power of storytelling and the impact of bringing diverse voices to the forefront of the film industry.
