The diversity, culture, and mystery of our country are not overlooked not only by visitors but also by Hollywood producers and filmmakers, who are eager to tell people new and exciting stories in their films.
If you love movies as much as the one who’s writing this article, we’re sure you’ll enjoy this article. Let’s take a look at films recorded or inspired in Peru and why they’re important to promote our country.
The Secret of the Incas (1954)
“The Secret of the Incas,” a 1954 adventure film by Jerry Hopper, is a significant work of cinema. It is set in Peru’s stunning landscapes, including Cusco and Machu Picchu. The film stars Charlton Heston, the legendary American actor as Harry Steele, an American adventurer living in Cusco as he searches for a legendary Incan artifact, a powerful golden sunburst.
Yma Sumac, the most renowned Peruvian soprano of all time, also plays a key role, adding authenticity to the film’s depiction of Peruvian culture. The plot follows Steele as he competes with rival treasure hunters while he navigates dangerous terrain dealing with local conflicts and romance.
The film is important for its thrilling story and its visuals showing Peru’s beauty and the Incan civilization‘s mystique to many viewers. “The Secret of the Incas” influenced later films, especially the “Indiana Jones” series, as it had an adventurous tone, a charismatic hero, and a treasure-hunting theme.
The film is a cultural artifact that showcases Peru’s rich heritage and landscapes, adding to the world’s fascination with Incan history and the allure of Machu Picchu.
Fitzcarraldo (1982)
“Fitzcarraldo,” a 1982 film directed by renowned German filmmaker Werner Herzog, is set in the Peruvian Amazon jungle. Fitzcarraldo, also known as Brian Sweeney Fitzgerald, has an amazing story to share. Klaus Kinski, one of the most influential German actors of all time portrays Fitzcarraldo, an eccentric Irishman.
His obsession is introducing opera to the rainforest as he aims to build an opera theater in Peru’s Iquitos. He has to get the money to achieve this by getting into the rubber business which became a boom in that time. The most iconic part of the film is when Fitzcarraldo attempts to haul a massive steamship over a mountain to reach a rich rubber territory.
This feat, which seems impossible, reflects Herzog’s own will, as he chose to shoot the scene without special effects, actually dragging a real ship over a hill. This became a symbol of human persistence and ambition. “Fitzcarraldo” is notable for its thrilling tale that explores obsession and the clash of civilization and nature.
The film is known for its chaotic, troubled production: the movie faced dangerous conditions and conflicts between the cast and crew. It is said that Herzog and Kinski’s relationship was “the most toxic relation in cinema history” as they hated each other until the point of trying to attempt each other’s life.
Mick Jagger, the singer of the legendary rock band The Rolling Stones was supposed to be in the film, playing Wilbur, Fitzgerald’s business partner. He even shot scenes in the film, however, due to the promotion of “Tatto You”, the new Rolling Stones record at that time he ended up retiring from the film.
Despite the disastrous and surreal production of Fitzcarraldo, this film is seen as a masterpiece by critics and specialized press. The film earned several awards and now is considered by many a cult film. We can say that “Fitzcarraldo” is a powerful, stunning film, that captures the wild beauty of the Peruvian jungle and the hero’s relentless spirit.
The Motorcycle Diaries (2004)
This film is based on the life of Argentinian revolutionary Ernesto “Che” Guevara. The film tells the history of a young Guevara and his best friend who drop off the university in their last year to start a travel throughout South America. They plan to travel as much as they can visiting numerous countries in Latin America using a Norton 500 motorbike.
During their visit to Andean communities, they realized the difference between the rich and the poor, and the precarious conditions these people live in, which led Guevara to realize the importance of a revolution. The movie is full of Peruvian stunning scenery such as Cusco, Machu Picchu, and the Amazon
Motorcycle diaries focus on the purpose of life, social inequality, and the fight for human rights. Thanks to Che Guevara’s view, we can see beautiful landscapes in our country mixed with a compelling message
The Emperor’s New Groove (2000)
This animated film takes inspiration from the ancient Inca Empire. In the beginning, this film was supposed to be a musical epic called “Kingdom of the Sun”, the director Roger Allers hired renowned British musician Sting to compose songs for the film, however, due to creative and production differences the musical changed into a more comedic animation film.
The film is set in the magical Inca land, where the emperor called Kuzco, (an obvious reference to the ancient Inca cradle Cusco) is transformed into a llama by a spell. Now, he embarks on an adventure with Pacha to become human one more time.
The film is cherished by people from all the games it’s one of the best animated films in Disney’s history and it’s still remembered for its setting, soundtrack, and hilarious scenes. It definitely became a classic, and even though it doesn’t reflect Peruvian culture with fidelity, it’s well remembered by Peruvian people as a great film.
Dora and the Lost City of Gold (2019)
“Dora and the Lost City of Gold” is a live-action adventure film based on the cartoon of the same name. It follows Dora, a teenage explorer who has spent her life in the jungle with her parents who went to Peru to find the Lost City of Gold, Parapata. So, they sent Dora to high school in the city to live a normal teenage life.
However, Dora’s life takes an unexpected turn when she, her cousin Diego, and two of their classmates are kidnapped by mercenaries who want to use Dora to locate Parapata. Dora must use her skills, smarts, and her friends’ help, to survive. She must navigate the jungle, solve puzzles, and evade ancient traps.
The film is a light-hearted tale of friendship and courage, blends humor and adventure with lessons on teamwork and perseverance, showing the importance of staying true to oneself. The film features Isabela Merced, who plays Dora, the main character. Merced is of Peruvian ancestry and although she was born in the US, she identifies as more Peruvian than American.
Transformers, Rise of the Beasts (2021)
For those who love sci-fi and mecha battles, “El despertar de la bestias” is their best option. The seventh movie of the “Transformers” franchise features various scenes in Peru as is set in the 90s Peru. The film takes you to Cusco, the Peruvian jungle, and Machu Picchu.
In the film, there are scenes where Autobots interact with locals speaking in Quechua, the Incas’ ancient language, the film also casts Latino actors and actresses. The film was a hit in our country, and during the filming, Cusqueños were excited to see the Autobots and Decepticons battle in action.
Paddington In Peru (2024)
Although this film has not been released yet, it’s the third movie in the Paddington franchise and the first set in Peru. Paddington is a Peruvian spectacled bear living in London England since he was a cub. This time, Paddington and his friends travel to Peru looking for his aunt Lucy.
The film has Peruvian locations such as the Lima Historical Center, and Miraflores neighborhood, which by the way has a statue commemorating the cute little bear. The Machu Picchu village and the citadel are also seen in some scenes.
Based on the English children’s book “Paddington Bear” by author Michael Bond, “Paddington in Peru” is a British film directed by Paul King that follows the adventures of the most well-known bear in the world. The first two movies brought in around 500 million dollars at the global box office, showing their success.
Honorable Mentions
Anaconda
Directed by the Peruvian filmmaker Luis “Lucho” Llosa. In the lush Amazon rainforest of Peru, a film crew sets out to make a documentary about a fascinating indigenous tribe. The team’s enthusiastic director, Terri Flores, leads them as they seek a friendly local guide to help navigate the winding river.
Along the way, they meet Paul Serone, an experienced hunter who has his own unique perspective on the journey. This unexpected encounter adds an intriguing twist to their expedition. Serone leads them deeper into the jungle in search of a massive, deadly anaconda.
As the crew realizes Serone’s true intentions, they find themselves fighting for survival against the giant snake. With the jungle closing in, the team must escape from an enormous anaconda and a man leading them into its lair.
Green Inferno (2013)
For fans of horror and gore, we have this film, directed by the mastermind of the “Hostel” saga. This film tells the story of a group of student activists who leave New York and head into the Peruvian Amazon to prevent deforestation from destroying an ancient tribe.
The group, led by the passionate young woman Justine, feels that they are on a heroic mission to defend Indigenous people and their territory. However, they are taken prisoner by the very tribe they are trying to save after a plane crash leaves them stranded in the forest.
They discover to their surprise that the tribe is cannibalistic, so the activists find themselves in a terrifying battle for survival as they are hunted and consumed by the very people they came to save. “Green Inferno” explores the dark side of activism, culture clash, and the unforgiving nature of the jungle.
Aguirre, the Wrath of God (1972)
We have another film by the duo Herzog- Kinski also set in the Peruvian Amazon. The movie shares the intense story of a Spanish expedition in the 16th century, led by the ambitious and troubled Don Lope de Aguirre, played by Klaus Kinski. As the film unfolds, we see Aguirre and his group of conquistadors struggle with their quest to find the legendary city of El Dorado.
Filmed entirely in Peru, this movie highlights the country’s stunning environments, from thick jungles to powerful rivers. These amazing scenes not only showcase Peru’s natural beauty but also reflect its rich cultural heritage. This makes the film more than just a historical drama; it invites viewers to appreciate the wild wonders of the Peruvian Amazon.
Visiting our country gives travelers a chance to follow in the footsteps of these historical figures. You can dive into the rich culture, history, and natural beauty that inspired Herzog’s work. Whether you are interested in history, adventure, or nature, Peru offers an unforgettable experience that connects to the spirit of Aguirre, the Wrath of God.
Max is missing (1995)
In this exciting family film, 12-year-old Max Taylor joins his archaeologist father in Peru, near Machu Picchu. There, Max discovers a hidden golden disc with strange writings, making him a target for treasure hunters. During a chaotic moment, he gets separated from his dad and finds himself lost in the Andes.
Scared and alone, Max must think quickly, but he gets help from Juan, a local boy who knows the area. Together, they try to escape the hunters and return the disc. During the movie, they face many challenges, including ancient ruins, jungles, and cliffs. Through this, Max learns about bravery, friendship, and the need to protect culture. The film blends adventure history, and culture from Cusco and Machu Picchu.
We hope that this cinephile list based on our country and its attractions will be informative and entertaining for you. We can’t wait to see you here soon! Remember, when in Peru, contact Viagens Machu Picchu.
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