Films Shot in Puerto Rico: A Cinematic Guide

For a small island, Puerto Rico has produced a remarkable list of movie stars and has been a captivating backdrop for many films. This unique island boasts a blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and diverse settings that appeal to filmmakers from around the world.

Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides

In the fourth installment of Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean series, Captain Jack Sparrow, portrayed by Johnny Depp, explored the stunning visuals of Puerto Rico. The enchanting Palominitos Island served as a picturesque setting for key scenes, along with the historic Castillo de San Cristóbal in Old San Juan.

Fast Five

The Fast Five installment features an electrifying mix of high-speed chases with Vin Diesel and The Rock, showcasing the vibrant streets of San Juan. The intense action scenes resonate with the local traffic atmosphere, ensuring that the racing felt authentic, even during peak hours.

The Men Who Stare at Goats

In this quirky film, the action unfolds in the inspiring El Yunque Rainforest. Its lush landscapes provide a surreal backdrop for the storyline involving unique characters and supernatural elements. It is known for its captivating views and diverse vegetation.

GoldenEye

In the thrilling climax of GoldenEye, witnesses can enjoy the dramatic battle taking place at the Arecibo Observatory, the largest dish telescope in the world. This iconic science facility served as a stunning visual representation for a pivotal scene, captivating audiences and highlighting the district’s significance.

The Losers

In The Losers, an elite special forces unit experiences treachery and betrayal while filming in various picturesque locations throughout Puerto Rico. Notable scenes were shot in Hato Rey, which is San Juan’s vibrant business district, illustrating the beauty and diversity of urban Puerto Rico.

Amistad

The powerful film Amistad, directed by Steven Spielberg, tackles the important subject of a slave revolt aboard the ship named​ La Amistad. The film featured an impressive cast, including Anthony Hopkins and Djimon Hounsou, portraying significant historical moments against stunning backdrops like El Morro.

The Lord of the Flies

Based on the well-known novel, The Lord of the Flies received acclaim both as a book and a film. In 1963, the movie was filmed in various dramatic locations in Puerto Rico, capturing the unique essence of the island, including Aguadilla, El Yunque Rainforest, and the stunning Vieques Island.