Costa Rican IT Worker Uncovers High-Stakes Scam Targeting Americans

A new indie project is currently in production across Colombia and Costa Rica, with a diverse cast and an intriguing premise. The film, titled "52nd State," is being directed by Netflix's former VP of product, Todd S. Yellin, and is executive produced by Netflix co-founder Reed Hastings in his first feature film producing credit.

The story, inspired by real events, follows Felipe, a disillusioned Costa Rican IT worker who stumbles into a high-stakes scam operation that preys on vulnerable Americans. As the scheme spirals out of control, Felipe teams up with a relentless local investigator, played by Gabriela Ortega, and a worn-down U.S. Postal Inspector, portrayed by Ken Jeong, in a tense bid to dismantle the network from within.

The film boasts a talented ensemble cast, including Moisés Arias, Teresa Ruiz, Ignacio Diaz-Silverio, and a host of up-and-coming actors such as Alice Kremelberg, Bo Mitchell, and Daryl "Chill" Mitchell. The production is being overseen by the Bogota-based company Jaguar Bite, ensuring an authentic Latin American perspective.

With its gripping premise, diverse representation, and the involvement of industry heavyweights like Reed Hastings, "52nd State" is poised to be a captivating and thought-provoking addition to the indie film landscape.