New Colonial-Era Film Production Seeks 200 Extras in Yucatán

An international film production is coming to Yucatán, and local residents have a chance to be part of it.

The colonial-era project begins filming Nov. 6 and wraps Dec. 14. Crews will shoot in Mérida and several other municipalities across the state, including locations along the Paseo de Montejo, in the historic center, and at period residences.

Producers are looking for 200 people to work as extras in the opening scenes. That number could grow to 1,000 participants over the six-week shoot. The casting call is open to people of all ages and physical characteristics, with some specific roles requiring actors who can portray characters of European descent.

The production comes as Mexico’s film industry experiences significant growth. Netflix recently committed to investing $1 billion in Mexican productions over the next four years, signaling strong international interest in the country as a filming destination. Yucatán’s colonial architecture, diverse landscapes, and growing film infrastructure make it an attractive location for productions seeking authentic period settings.

Those selected as extras will need to attend costume fittings. All wardrobe will be custom-made for each participant.

The peninsula has become a popular filming location thanks to its variety of settings. Beyond Mérida’s colonial mansions and tree-lined boulevards, the state offers tropical jungles, ancient Mayan ruins, and coastal areas. Productions can find everything from 16th-century architecture to natural cenotes within a short drive.

Mexico’s film industry growth has created thousands of jobs across the country. In Mexico City alone, film production accounts for nearly 12% of the city’s GDP. Netflix has shot projects in 25 of Mexico’s 31 states, demonstrating the broad appeal of Mexican locations to international filmmakers.

The peninsula offers practical advantages for film crews. Major international airports in Cancún and Mérida provide easy access. Local production companies have experience working with international teams, and the region’s hotels and restaurants can accommodate large crews for extended shoots.

Yucatán’s colonial period left a wealth of historic buildings that work well for period productions. The mansions along Paseo de Montejo date to the 19th-century henequen boom, when wealthy landowners built European-style homes. Many have been carefully preserved or restored, offering filmmakers authentic settings without the need for extensive set construction.

The state’s temperate climate allows for year-round filming, though November through February generally offers the most comfortable weather for outdoor shoots. This production’s six-week schedule will span what’s typically considered one of the best times of year in Mérida, with warm days and cool evenings.

While details about the specific production remain limited, the scale suggests a significant project. Moving from 200 to potentially 1,000 extras indicates scenes requiring large crowds, likely depicting colonial-era gatherings or street life.

The casting agency didn’t specify whether participants would be paid, though extra work typically involves compensation for time and availability. Professional extras often work multiple days on a single production, particularly for period pieces where maintaining continuity is essential.

Interested residents should act quickly. The casting call remains open until Nov. 5 — just one day before filming begins. The tight timeline suggests producers are finalizing their location scouting and pre-production work while simultaneously building their talent pool.

For Yucatán, the production represents another step in the state’s growing profile as a filming destination. As more international productions discover what the peninsula has to offer, local residents may see increased opportunities to participate in film and television projects.