The film features a talented ensemble cast including Angélica Vale (known for her role in La Fea Más Bella), Marisé Álvarez (from Obi-Wan Kenobi), Karla Monroig, and Angelique Burgos. These actresses portray the Tiki Tikis, a group of best friends who embark on an exhilarating girl’s trip across Puerto Rico. This action-packed adventure not only rekindles their friendship but also strengthens their bond, serving as a catalyst for personal growth and mutual empathy. It’s a journey they didn’t realize they needed until now.
Renowned actress Sanchez, celebrated for her roles in films like Rush House 2, The Game Plan, and Act of Valor, as well as TV shows such as Fantasy Island for FOX, Devious Maids for Lifetime, and CBS’s Without A Trace, has recently transitioned to a new phase in her career. She has written and directed the award-winning short film Satos, which was also filmed in San Juan.
Reflecting on her career shift, Sanchez shared, “After many years of contemplating the possibility of writing and directing my own movies to transition into another phase of my career, this film is the beginning of an amazing dream that has now come to fruition. I’m incredibly honored to have such a wonderful cast and crew joining me on this venture. To write and direct a love letter to my Island of PR through the lens of comedy brings me so much joy.”
Puerto Rico offers a highly competitive film incentive program, which includes a transferable tax credit equal to 40% of local spending (including labor) and 20% of all non-resident costs. Additionally, there are extra bonuses available for local producers. In a bid to further boost film production on the island, the current Governor has allocated $74 million from the American Rescue Plan Act funds to eligible film projects. Diario, Mujer & Café was one of the fortunate recipients of these grants.
Alongside Sanchez, the film’s production team includes notable names such as Anne Clements (known for Quinceañera and Fantasy Island), Paul Kampf (known for Harvest and Satos), Frances Lausell (known for Fantasy Island and Undercard), and Andres Ramirez (also known for Undercard). The executive producers are Jessica Beltrán, Katia Reguero Lindor, Irmarie Marquez-Báez, Susan Henry, Anna Di Marco, and Manuel Cintron.
Sanchez is represented by Independent Artist Group and Alchemy Entertainment. Angélica Vale and Marisé Álvarez are represented by DePaz Management. Karla Monroig is represented by MM Latino Entertainment, and Angelique Burgos is represented by RSB Entertainment.