Hollywood Film Beckons Visitors to Sample the Natural Beauty of Manuel Antonio in Costa Rica

Nestled along the Central Pacific Coast of Costa Rica, Manuel Antonio National Park has become recognized as a premier destination over the past several years. Now, the world-famous park has become the backdrop for a Hollywood movie. Filming for "After Words" began three years ago; the film recently premiered in New York City.

The love story stars Academy Award-winning actress Marcia Gay Harden as Jane, as well as Oscar Jaenada Catalán, who won a Goya award for his role in "Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides."

Produced and directed by Juan Feldman, the film features a script written by Joel Silverman and centers on the love story of Harden's character, an introverted librarian whose career falls victim to budget cuts. Following a downward spiral into depression, she comes across a book highlighting the beauty of Costa Rica. That book inspires her to embark upon what she plans to be an end-of-life journey as she considers suicide as a solution to her troubles.

Once in Costa Rica, Jane becomes acquainted with a tour guide who introduces her to the true meaning of the Costa Rican term "pura vida,” meaning pure life. Together, the two enjoy an adventure through the beauty of Costa Rica, which may be enough to change Jane's plan to take her life.

Throughout the movie, viewers are treated to the idyllic scenery that is unique to Costa Rica and Manuel Antonio. Filming locations for the movie included Portasol Living, an eco-community located south of Manuel Antonio; the Tárcoles River; Quepos; Puerto Viejo; and, of course, Manuel Antonio National Park.

The film was inspired in part by the book "Costa Rica: A Journey Through Nature." The coffee table book was written by Adrian Hepworth following 13 years of fieldwork and photography throughout Costa Rica.