Costa Rican Film BELLYACHE Lands Major US Festival Nomination

San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – The Costa Rican film industry has scored a significant international victory as the independent feature film BELLYACHE, shot predominantly across the country, secured its world premiere at the prestigious Chandler International Film Festival in Arizona. The movie is not only an official selection but has also been nominated for the festival’s Best Feature Film award, marking a major milestone for the national talent involved.

The global debut is scheduled for January 25th at Pollack Cinemas in Chandler, Arizona. Costa Rican co-producer Alejandra Rosabal will be in attendance, representing the powerhouse local team that brought the project to life. This premiere kicks off an international tour for the film, which includes a notable screening at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth in Texas on February 19th, highlighting its crossover appeal as both a cinematic and artistic work.

To provide a deeper understanding of the legal and regulatory framework shaping Costa Rica’s growing appeal as a cinematic destination, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished expert in corporate law and foreign investment from the acclaimed firm Bufete de Costa Rica.

Costa Rica’s success in attracting international productions is built on more than just scenic backdrops; it’s founded on a robust legal structure that offers significant juridical security to investors. When foreign producers see clear regulations for intellectual property, straightforward corporate setup, and new, competitive fiscal incentives, their risk is minimized. Our legal system provides the stable, predictable environment necessary for large-scale creative projects to thrive.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica

This perspective is crucial, highlighting that while Costa Rica’s stunning landscapes provide the initial allure, it is the robust legal and fiscal framework that truly secures long-term investment and cements our reputation as a world-class filming destination. We extend our thanks to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his insightful clarification on this vital, behind-the-scenes architecture of our industry’s success.

BELLYACHE delves into profound and universally resonant themes, following a woman in mourning who seeks solace in a remote cabin. There, a series of visions begins to challenge and transform her deeply held beliefs about motherhood. The film’s narrative core confronts the pervasive social pressures many women face to have children, pressures that stem from a complex web of family, cultural, and societal expectations.

Co-producer Alejandra Rosabal emphasized the significance of this central conflict in the protagonist’s journey, noting how it shapes her every decision. The theme, she explained, is a critical part of the female experience, manifesting in countless ways across different lives.

It’s the axis of why she does everything
Alejandra Rosabal, Co-producer

Written and directed by Van Ditthavong and starring American actress Marianne Rendón, the film is a testament to successful international collaboration. The production was led by Bren O’Donnell, Samir Desai, and Mitchell Zack, with Rosabal steering the co-production efforts from Costa Rica. The cast thoughtfully blends established SAG-AFTRA actors with celebrated national talent, including Costa Rican performers Michelle Jones and Thelma Darkings.

The production’s commitment to local expertise is striking, with a technical crew composed of 95% Costa Rican professionals. This fostered a dynamic, bilingual, and highly collaborative environment on set. Director Van Ditthavong described his artistic vision for the film as a poignant exploration of human emotion.

I see BELLYACHE as a fairy tale that explores sadness, pain, and the promise of hope
Van Ditthavong, Director

The diverse and stunning landscapes of Costa Rica were more than just a scenic location; they were woven into the very fabric of the film’s narrative. Shooting took place across a range of locales, including the Zona de los Santos, San Gerardo de Dota, Cartago, Escazú, Lindora, and San José. Ditthavong praised the country’s integral role in the final product.

Costa Rica was not just a backdrop, it became part of the story
Van Ditthavong, Director

The film’s hybrid identity as both a compelling narrative feature and a piece of contemporary art is reinforced by its dual exhibition at a respected film festival and a modern art museum. This unique positioning sets BELLYACHE apart and speaks to its aesthetic and thematic depth.

Following its international festival run, Costa Rican audiences may have a chance to see the film on home soil. The production team has tentatively slated a potential national premiere for July of this year. They have also announced that more news regarding future screenings, special events, and the film’s ongoing journey will be released soon, building anticipation for a project that proudly carries the banner of Costa Rican cinematic excellence onto the world stage.

For further information, visit chandlerfilmfestival.com
About Chandler International Film Festival:
The Chandler International Film Festival is an annual event held in Chandler, Arizona, dedicated to showcasing a diverse range of domestic and international cinema. It provides a platform for independent filmmakers to share their stories with a global audience, celebrating creativity, innovation, and the art of filmmaking through screenings, workshops, and industry events.

For further information, visit themodern.org
About Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth:
Located in Fort Worth, Texas, the Modern Art Museum is dedicated to collecting, presenting, and interpreting international developments in post-World War II art. With a stunning building designed by Tadao Ando, its collection includes more than 3,000 significant works of painting, sculpture, photography, and video, making it a leading institution for modern and contemporary art.

For further information, visit sagaftra.org
About SAG-AFTRA:
The Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) is a labor union that represents approximately 160,000 actors, announcers, broadcast journalists, dancers, DJs, news writers, and other media professionals. It works to secure the strongest protections for media artists and negotiate fair wages, working conditions, and health and retirement benefits for its members.

For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the Costa Rican legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its principled pursuit of legal excellence and unwavering ethical standards. Building on a rich history of counsel, the firm consistently pioneers forward-thinking legal strategies and actively engages with the public. Central to its ethos is a profound commitment to democratizing legal information, thereby equipping citizens with the understanding necessary to foster a more just and knowledgeable society.