Cast members of the upcoming Peruvian comedy movie Separada, pero nunca sola gathered in Tarapoto for a red carpet avant premiere at Cinerama Tarapoto. The film is scheduled to open in movie theaters across Peru on September 3.
Lead actors Emilia Drago, Joaquín de Orbegoso, Armando Machuca, Nicolás Galindo and Ximena Palomino made a grand entry at the venue by arriving in mototaxis. The three-wheeled motorized vehicles are among the most iconic modes of daily transportation in the northern jungle region.
Crowds of fans gathered early outside the cinema complex to greet the cast, request autographs and pose for photographs. The main cast walked the red carpet alongside regional actors Ximena Luna, Brandon Pereira, Nuria Mayor, Paolo Shuña and Jordi Pérez, who represent local talent featured in the production.
Parts of the movie were filmed directly in the San Martín department, highlighting prominent natural landmarks such as the Ahuashiyacu waterfall and the Blue Lagoon. Tarapoto, a major commercial hub in Peru's high jungle area, regularly attracts visitors with its tropical landscape and surrounding ecological attractions.
Cast Members Express Gratitude to Local Audience
Emilia Drago, who serves as both the protagonist and a producer of the film, expressed her joy at returning to the city where key scenes were shot. She said the project was created with affection, reflecting the warm reception the crew experienced from local residents starting on their very first day of filming. Drago added that she hoped audiences would enjoy the comedy while admiring the scenery of the San Martín region.
Fellow actor Armando Machuca encouraged families to visit cinemas from the opening day on September 3, stating that moviegoers would not be disappointed. Actor Joaquín de Orbegoso also shared his enthusiasm during the red carpet procession, stating how happy he was to return and declaring his affection for Tarapoto.
Director Highlights Decentralization of Peruvian Cinema
Following the screening, director Ani Alva Helfer described the experience of watching the finished feature alongside the Tarapoto public as deeply moving. She explained that the filmmaking team met an exceptional number of skilled actors and technical crew members throughout the regional production process, adding that the team carried back fond memories of the collaboration.
Helfer emphasized that expanding film production outside the capital city of Lima is beneficial for the country's cultural industry, noting that Tarapoto deserves far greater visibility on the big screen. Peruvian feature films have traditionally centered production in Lima, making regional filming projects and localized premieres a significant step toward broader representation.
