Filming for “Fast & Furious 8” have officially started in Cuba in mid-April 2016. Several stars from the racing franchise were spotted arriving in Havana and preparations have been made at various points throughout the city.

Technicians have been busy in the past several weeks, preparing the different shooting locations in Havana. The Malecon, a popular seaside street in the city, has been converted into a race track for the eighth installment of the film franchise.

Cuba Headlines writes that producers, actors, doubles and crew members have arrived in Havana quietly. Particularly, Vin Diesel and Michelle Rodriguez were spotted at the airport in the country’s capital. Rodriguez shared her arrival on social media, saying that it has been 15 years since she last visited Cuba and appreciated the warm people and beautiful island. Charlize Theron is also expected to arrive soon, who will play a villain in the next movie.

Other cast members include Tyrese Gibson, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Jason Statham and Kurt Russell. Felix Gary Gray will serve as director. Even after the death of franchise star Paul Walker, producers decided to make another “Fast & Furious” movie as it continues to do well in the box office.

Havana Times reports that Cubans gathered around shooting venues for a chance to see some of the hot cars and actors. A number of houses in Havana were transformed into makeup studios and prop storage areas. The Marti Stadium had a number of trucks indicating that these were from or hired by Hollywood producers. Many of the main streets in Havana were also closed off temporarily for filming purposes. Several city bus routes had to be altered to cater to the movie production. There has been public transport and traffic congestion issues due to the blockage of main streets passageways.

A production sign stated that Cuban residents who are in the vicinity automatically consent to have their image and voice to be included in the movie without payment, credit or other forms of compensation. Some Cubans were delighted by the idea of possibly appearing in the upcoming film. Others did not seem to mind the traffic problems that came with the movie production and were proud to have their city being showcased in a famous franchise.

In 2015, producers were searching for 1950s American cars that are still existent or actively being used in Havana, which will hopefully be included in the new film.

“Fast & Furious 8” will air in the U.S. on Apr. 14, 2017.

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