Celebrating Cinema in the Dominican Republic - The Hollywood of the Caribbean

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ATLANTA/NEW ORLEANS/DOMINICAN REPUBLIC- July 5, 2023

Every summer, a unique mix of influencers, business leaders and entertainment professionals gather in New Orleans at the widely successful Essence Festival of Culture. The festival includes a variety of opportunities for this forward-moving community to connect, learn and grow. 

Adding to their existing palate of offerings, this year organizers included a film festival component, programmed through a variety of screenings, interactive discussions and other engagement activities. As part of this mix of programming, Dr. Diana Lynch, CEO & Founder of Alma de Samaná Golf Resort and Residences, was invited to lead a discussion on the film industry in the Dominican Republic. 


In addition to building a world-class resort community featuring over 1,400 luxurious villas and condominiums, Dr. Lynch and her team are committed to supporting the island nation's efforts to be the “Hollywood of the Caribbean.” 

During the festival, Dr. Lynch moderated a panel centered around Eunice Levis' film Invade starring actor Elvis Nolasco, of Godfather of Harlem notoriety. Both Levis and Nolasco are of Dominican heritage. As the panel wrapped, Dr. Lynch announced The Alma Film Festival.


Debuting in the Spring of 2026, the festival will be integrated into the fabric of the Alma de Samaná Golf Resort and Residences, which is the first Black-owned luxury resort located on the pristine, mountainous Samana peninsula with breath-taking views of the Atlantic Ocean and Samana Bay.

The Samana community was settled by a group freed African Americans in 1824, who maintained much of their American customs and traditions. Today, Samana continues to be the only English speaking enclave in the country. 

“We invite you to join us on this collaborative journey in whatever way works for you; from becoming a Friend of the Alma de Samaná Foundation, a Global Ambassador for our film festival or you may want to explore an opportunity to purchase a home in our community. Either way, we look forward to making a meaningful connection.” ~ Dr. Diana Lynch, Founder & CEO

To learn more visit 

More About The Film Community in the Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic has been a preferred film and television location for years with its lush tropical forests, snow capped mountains, vibrant towns, hidden alcoves, and white-sandy beaches.

The Godfather 2, Jurassic Park, Fast & The Furious 4 & 7 as well as the hit reality series Survivor, all used the Dominican Republic as part of their backdrop. These movies were shot throughout the country, but there are a number of successful films that chose Samana Bay specifically, including: XXX: Return of Xander Cage, Shotgun Wedding and Lost City.

There is no doubt that the Dominican Republic has gorgeous scenery but there is also a great deal of political support for productions filmed in the nation including:

  • Tax Incentives: The Dominican Republic offers a 25% transferable tax credit on qualified expenditures for local productions and 20% for international productions. Additionally, a 15% tax credit is available for infrastructure investments in audiovisual production facilities.

  • Simplified Procedures: The government has streamlined permit processes, facilitating faster approvals for filming projects.

  • Institutional Support: Institutions such as the Dominican Film Commission (DGCINE) and the Dominican Republic Tourism Ministry provides guidance and support to filmmakers, assisting with location scouting, permits, and connections with local professionals.


More About the Nation

Dominican Republic is a democratic nation with a population of over 10 million. Its coveted shores face the Caribbean Sea in the south, and the Atlantic Ocean in the north. The nation boasted a tourism industry of almost 8.5 million visitors in 2022, which is a 37% increase from the previous year.

Aside from historic firsts, the Dominican Republic ranks among the most diverse Caribbean countries in geography, nature, and people. Its landscape ranges from the highest peak in the region, Pico Duarte, to the lowest body of water, Lago Enriquillo.

The country’s cultural make up –Taino, European, and African–includes a diverse population welcomed in the DR since the 19th century, from Jewish and Japanese communities to UNESCO-proclaimed Afro-Caribbean groups.

PR Inquiries: Please contact Greta J. Russo, 267-272-5812 or pr@almade Samaná .com

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