Tulum, Mexico is quickly becoming a favored location for high-profile film projects, and the latest production to set up shop in the region boasts a particularly impressive potential cast. Salma Hayek is currently filming a secret movie deep in the jungles near Tulum, utilizing the area’s unique cave systems and cenotes as key locations. While details remain scarce, rumors suggest Angelina Jolie may also be involved in the project.
The production has been operating with a high degree of discretion, according to local reports. Over the past few weeks, Hayek has been spotted at cenotes like Casa Tortuga and other remote jungle locations. Production crews have reportedly taken over these areas, bringing in equipment, lighting rigs, and security teams early in the morning, indicating complex scenes are being filmed both underground and underwater. The secrecy surrounding the film has fueled speculation that it’s a major international production.
This isn’t simply a case of a Hollywood star choosing a picturesque backdrop. Hayek has been a vocal advocate for strengthening Mexico’s film industry, and her choice of location is deeply intertwined with a broader effort to boost the country’s creative sector. In November 2025, Hayek met with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum in Veracruz to present a plan aimed at attracting more national and international film productions to Mexico. The discussion centered on implementing tax incentives and improving infrastructure to support the industry.
The meeting, described by Sheinbaum as “very positive,” underscores a long-awaited shift in Mexican policy. Hayek reportedly highlighted the potential for job creation and cultural promotion that a thriving film industry could bring. Sheinbaum, echoing Hayek’s sentiments, emphasized her administration’s commitment to supporting creative industries. The President even shared a photo of the meeting on Instagram with the caption “Mujeres mexicanas,” which quickly went viral.
Hayek’s advocacy stems from years of frustration with Mexico’s lack of competitive incentives for filmmakers. She has previously spoken about the difficulties of securing funding for projects that celebrate Mexican culture, noting that financing was readily available if the film were made elsewhere, but not within Mexico itself. This issue has been a significant barrier to the growth of the national film industry, hindering its ability to compete on a global scale.
The recent changes in policy, spearheaded by President Sheinbaum, appear to address these concerns directly. Hayek expressed her excitement at the new tax incentives, praising Sheinbaum for promoting the change. She emphasized the importance of investing in homegrown stories and highlighted Mexico’s potential as a filming location, stating that the country’s talent and natural beauty could easily double for any location in the world.
The timing of Hayek’s current project and her advocacy work is no coincidence. The new incentives are designed to attract international productions like hers, while simultaneously fostering the development of Mexican cinema. Hayek’s plan, as presented to Sheinbaum, calls for a combination of tax breaks and infrastructure improvements to make Mexico a more attractive destination for filmmakers. This includes support for both large-scale international productions and smaller, independent Mexican films.
The potential economic and cultural impact of these changes is significant. Boosting film production in Mexico could generate thousands of jobs, not only in the film industry itself but also in related sectors such as tourism and hospitality. Showcasing Mexico’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage through film could attract more visitors and promote a positive image of the country internationally.
While the details of Hayek’s current project remain under wraps, the involvement of a star like Angelina Jolie would undoubtedly elevate its profile. Both actresses have a track record of balancing commercial success with socially conscious storytelling, and a collaboration between them could result in a film with both artistic merit and global resonance. The rumored involvement of Jolie adds another layer of intrigue to an already secretive production.
Hayek’s commitment extends beyond simply attracting productions to Mexico. She has also been a vocal advocate for Mexican migrants in the United States, further solidifying her role as a cultural ambassador for the country. Her efforts to promote Mexico’s film industry are part of a larger effort to celebrate and support Mexican culture both at home and abroad.
The current production in Tulum represents a pivotal moment for the Mexican film industry. With the support of President Sheinbaum and the advocacy of stars like Salma Hayek, Mexico is poised to become a major player in the global film landscape. The combination of new incentives, stunning locations, and a wealth of talent promises a bright future for Mexican cinema.
