AS Guyana prepares to welcome a historic international film production to its shores, acclaimed filmmaker Carl Weyant stands at the forefront as director of the movie “Secrets in the Rupununi” — a project that is drawing global attention to the breathtaking landscapes of the Rupununi.
Recently highlighted in the Guyana Chronicle, the film represents one of the most significant international productions to be filmed locally in over five decades. For Weyant, the project is more than a movie; it is an opportunity to build cultural bridges between Hollywood, Bollywood, and Guyana’s emerging creative industry.
AN AWARD-WINNING BACKGROUND
Weyant is no stranger to international cinema. With over two decades in the entertainment industry, he has built a career as a director, producer, and actor known for emotionally driven storytelling and cinematic craftsmanship.
His early breakout film Karma: Crime, Passion, Reincarnation premiered at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival, placing him on the global stage. He later produced the critically recognised film Samuel Bleak, which premiered at the Cinequest Film Festival and earned praise for its bold narrative and emotional depth. Over the years, his work has spanned independent features, faith-based films, and internationally distributed projects, earning him a reputation as a filmmaker who blends technical precision with powerful human themes.
With Secrets in the Rupununi, Weyant brings that experience to Guyana with a clear vision: to showcase the country’s natural beauty, highlight local talent, and contribute to the growth of a sustainable film industry. The Rupununi’s sweeping savannahs, rivers, and untouched landscapes provide a cinematic backdrop rarely seen on international screens.
Weyant has expressed deep appreciation for the region’s authenticity and cultural richness, recognising its potential to become a future destination for global film production. Beyond the cameras and lights, the production is expected to provide training, collaboration and opportunity for local crews, actors, and businesses, creating ripple effects that extend beyond the film itself.
Known for his hands-on directing style, Weyant emphasises collaboration, discipline, and creative excellence. Cast and crew members describe his leadership as focused yet inspiring, blending artistic vision with a strong commitment to storytelling that resonates across cultures. As Guyana steps into a new chapter in cinematic history, Carl Weyant’s leadership signals more than just a film production. It represents a moment of global connection, where local landscapes meet international storytelling, and where Guyana’s voice is amplified on the world stage.
“SECRETS IN THE RUPUNUNI”
The movie, “Secrets in the Rupununi”, written and produced by a Guyanese, will be filmed in Guyana [and] soon take centre stage both locally and overseas. A Bollywood–Hollywood Motion Picture Production! Guyabai Media Inc. (Guyana), in co-operation with Kalingo Inc, USA and Alliance Studios, USA, presents “Secrets in the Rupununi”.
“Secrets in the Rupununi”, written by Guyanese author Geeta Autar-Sirjoo, is a sweeping love story and drama set against the breathtaking landscapes of the Rupununi. [It will be] the first major feature film production in Guyana in over 50 years. This is a Guyanese Film Production. The Production is scheduled to begin in May/June 2026, with casting anticipated for March/April 2026. The production team consists of Mohamed F. Khan, Executive Producer and Ed Ahmad, Co- Executive Producer.
Khan stated that he is proud of the world-class production team assembled for this film, bringing together extensive experience from both Hollywood and Bollywood. The goal is to deliver a feature film that meets the highest international production standards to impress critics and audiences alike.
The team will work closely with local talent and production crews to promote sustainable growth of film and creative industries in Guyana and the Caribbean.
Khan encourages all relevant film academies in Guyana to contact their offices in Guyana to discuss strategic partnerships and collaborative support for the successful production of this film. He also offers support and an exchange of resources to assist with productions that may be part of their current or future slate.
Immediate plans are also underway to establish production schools and training programmes in Guyana in the coming months. In addition, the team is planning the first Bollywood film to be produced in Guyana, featuring local Guyanese talent and original Bollywood songs.
MOVIE SYNOPSIS: Returning to the Rupununi at first fills Reuben and Mariam with a deep sense of renewal. The wide, open savannahs, the familiar hush of dusk, and the comforting rhythm of village life feel like healing. But beneath the surface, a quiet ache begins to grow between them