Universal is revving up for its upcoming instalment "Fast 8," as the filming is now in full swing. The cast and crew of "Fast 8" is said to be shooting their scenes in Cuba.
Director F. Gary Grey made the official statement when the series' official account shared a video, in which, he is seen being flanked by a group of women, who say in unison, "Fast & Furios, welcome to Cuba!" It was reported earlier that the eighth instalment of the hit movie series was eyeing the northern Caribbean island for filming and was in the process of seeking permission from the United States and Cuban government to shoot a portion.
"Fast 8" will be the first Hollywood studio film to shoot on the island since the embargo was set in the 1960s. Although the movie will be based in Atlanta, a number of exotic locations like Russia and Iceland are being eyed for filming, along with New York, The Hollywood Reporter reported.
The movie is also scheduled to shoot in Cleveland in the coming summer. The Greater Cleveland Film Commission (GCFC) announced recently that the eighth film in the "Fast & Furious" franchise will shoot second unit photography in Cleveland, Ohio from May until June 2016.
"We're very glad that 'Fast 8' is hiring so many local people, and contributing to our economy in a very impactful way," Fox 8 Cleveland quoted Ivan Schwarz, the President of GCFC as saying.
The filming is expected to create 380 jobs owing to the second unit photography, which will involve action shots with stunt performers and car chase scenes. However, stars of the franchise, including Vin Diesel, are not expected to land in the city.
A series of photos featuring an assemblage of Lamborghinis and tanks have been leaked from the set in Iceland as well. Since none of such pictures featured any of the franchise's stars have leaked yet, it is safe to assume that these could also be second unit photography.
Meanwhile, a couple of new faces reported to have joined the cast of "Fast 8." The most illustrious among them is Charlize Theron, who is likely to play a villain in the movie. She will be joining the returning cast members that include Dwayne Johnson, Jason Statham, Michelle Rodriguez , Kurt Russell and Tyrese Gibson. Watch the official teaser below: