The Fate of the Furious: A New Frontier in Location Shooting

For fans of the Fast and Furious franchise, the latest installment, The Fate of the Furious, promises to be an unforgettable ride. And it's not just the high-octane action sequences that have everyone buzzing – it's also the film's groundbreaking location shooting in Cuba.

Supervising location manager Eric Hooge, who has worked on several films in the franchise, recalls the excitement and anticipation when he first received word from the studio about shooting in Cuba. 'A lot of independents from other countries go to Cuba, but we were the first American studio ever to shoot there,' Hooge says proudly.

The journey began with a blank slate. 'We had to start from scratch because there was nobody to call,' Hooge notes. But he and producer Michael Fottrell were undeterred, beginning their research and planning process by pouring over maps, books, and online resources. They spent countless hours discussing the logistics of shooting on location in Cuba, from navigating language barriers to securing permits.

Their hard work paid off when they arrived in Havana, where they found themselves immersed in a vibrant culture that was both familiar and foreign. 'The Furious films are very international now, and we always want to go somewhere amazing,' Hooge explains. And nowhere is more amazing than Cuba – with its crumbling colonial architecture, colorful street art, and lively music scene.

For Hooge, the experience of shooting in Cuba was like being Christopher Columbus discovering new lands. He and his team had to navigate a complex web of regulations and red tape, but ultimately, it was worth it for the stunning visuals and authentic atmosphere they captured on film.

The Fate of the Furious is set to open on April 14, with Vin Diesel's character, Dom, visiting family in Havana and getting drawn into criminal activities. But while the plot may be familiar, the setting is anything but – offering a fresh and exciting twist on the franchise's usual formula.

Hooge's team worked tirelessly to ensure that every detail was meticulously researched and executed, from the vintage American cars that dominated the streets to the lively street performers who added a touch of authenticity to each scene.

The end result is a film that not only showcases Cuba in all its glory but also pays homage to the country's rich history and culture. For Hooge, it's a sense of pride knowing that his team was able to bring a piece of this incredible place to life on screen.

As The Fate of the Furious hits theaters, fans can expect an action-packed ride filled with heart-pumping stunts, high-stakes drama, and stunning visuals – all set against the breathtaking backdrop of Cuba. With its unique blend of international flair and Hollywood production values, it's an installment that promises to leave audiences breathless.

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