Black Gold: A riveting historical drama set in 19th-century Costa Rica, depicting the countrys fight for freedom through the lens of its coffee industry.

Unveiling the Historical Drama “Black Gold”: Costa Rica’s Tale of Freedom and Betrayal

A historical drama set in mid-19th-century Costa Rica, “Black Gold” delves into a story never before showcased in Costa Rican cinema. The film revolves around the pivotal role played by coffee, one of the country’s primary exports, in the fight for freedom. Set in 1855, the narrative follows Costa Rican President Juan Rafael Mora as he vows to protect his nation from the American filibuster and slaver William Walker, who has taken control of nearby Nicaragua.

Flashbacks trace Mora’s journey from a reformist coffee planter to a national leader, showcasing his endeavors to modernize his family’s plantation through fair wages and innovative methods. Driven by love, loss, and the guidance of his cautious brother-in-law, José María Montealegre, Mora forges trade relationships with British merchant William Le Lacheur. However, despite the victory over Walker in 1856, Costa Rica faces devastation from cholera. The narrative unfolds the betrayal by Montealegre, leading to Mora’s tragic execution, mirroring the ambitions and complexities of history.