Fast & Furious 8 Is Looking To Film In Cuba

Rumors have long swirled that the eighth installment of the Fast & Furious franchise would head to New York City for the first time in its 15 year history but that isn't that only major location in mind for the globetrotting franchise.

"Universal Pictures is currently in the process seeking approval from the United States and Cuban governments to explore shooting a portion of the next installment of the Fast & Furious series in Cuba," a spokeswoman for the studio said told Variety.

Exotic international locations wouldn't be new for the franchise, seeing as Furious 7 took the cast and crew through the skyline of Dubai and Fast Five was largely known for its Brazilian adventures. The avid Hispanic fanbase of the franchise would likely be pleased with a trip to Cuba.

"Cuba is a land that many know about, but few have seen," said John Kavulich, senior policy adviser to the U.S.-Cuba Trade and Economic Council. "These productions are hoping to capitalize on the increased interest in Cuba."

Only one Hollywood film has ever shot in Cuba to date: Giovanni Ribisi's Papa which was set during the Cuban Revolution. Other Hollywood films which "take place" in Cuba, such as Havana or Miami Vice substituted the embargoed location with spots such as the Dominican Repblic and Uruguay.

Fast & Furious 8 is set for release April 14, 2017.

source: Variety