Tides Of Desire
Tides of Desire is a sun-soaked, romantic vertical drama that explores the complexities of love, loss, and legacy against the breathtaking backdrop of coastal Costa Rica. Developed by WEC Films and written, directed, and executive produced by Carin Smolinski alongside her son as DOP Indy Wilson, the series follows a widowed mother and her two children as they start a new journey in a surf town riddled with buried secrets, tangled romances, and rising environmental conflict.
Tides of Desire challenges the conventions of vertical storytelling—centred on consent, strong female leads, and emotional depth. From the very beginning, Smolinski envisioned specific actors for the roles, writing parts with their unique qualities in mind. The cast, some familiar to the vertical world—including Jordan Frank, Jayda Stephens, Fabiola Marabotto, Mark James, Anastasia Rimar, Lara McCulloch, and James Beshore—brings striking authenticity to the screen. In a testament to the project's bold spontaneity, some were cast just days—or even hours—before filming began.
The production’s culture empowered a young, international crew—many fresh out of film school—to collaborate in an environment built on respect, communication, and creativity. Filmed entirely on location, the series is as grounded in ethical filmmaking as it is rich in cinematic detail.
Visually lush, emotionally layered, and socially conscious, Tides of Desire is more than a series—it’s a movement. It introduces a new kind of tropical drama: one that fuses heart and heat with storytelling that matters. In a genre often driven by tropes, Tides of Desire dares to offer something real.
What is Tides of Desire?
Where the sea meets the soul, a story of love, loss, and awakening begins.
In the golden light of a Costa Rican surf town, Eden Lane arrives with her two children, carrying grief like salt in the air. But the tides have their own rhythm— and as waves crash and secrets rise, each of them is pulled into an undercurrent of romance, resistance, and rebirth. A daughter finds purpose in saving endangered turtles. A son finds solace on his board, chasing waves and first love. And Eden, caught between the serenity she seeks and the fire she ignites, must choose between what feels safe and what feels alive. Tides of Desire is a sun-soaked, heart-swept vertical drama that explores the wild beauty of beginning again, the complexity of connection, and the courage it takes to let the tide carry you somewhere new.
Eden Lane - Fabiola Marabotto
Eden is the emotional center of the story—a resilient, nurturing woman who moves to a coastal town with her children after losing her husband. Seeking healing, she finds herself navigating a new social hierarchy, a mysterious love interest, and the pull between self-preservation and emotional risk. Eden is graceful, grounded, and fiercely protective of her family, eventually stepping into a leadership role in the community through her work with Believe Academy.
“I loved the contrast this character has to offer” - Fabiola Marabotto
Finn Lane - Jordan Frank
Charismatic and impulsive, Finn is still reeling from his father’s death. The ocean is both his escape and his battleground. Drawn to Sierra, the daughter of the town’s most powerful man, Finn finds himself caught in a storm of secrets, surf, and star-crossed love. His arc is one of growth—from wounded rebel to a young man who rediscovers purpose in protecting the surf culture his father loved.
Sage Lane - Anastasia Rimar
A passionate advocate for sea turtle conservation, Sage is wise beyond her years and unafraid to speak truth to power. Her connection with Diego—sweet but complicated—forces her to confront moral gray areas when she learns his family is involved in poaching.
“Sage was the sweetest ball of sunshine, I loved how determined she is when something is important to her” - Anastasia Rimar
Victor Graves - Mark James
Victor arrives as the villain, spearheading shady beachfront developments that threaten the community. But as his complicated past is revealed—including a broken dream of becoming a surfer and his quiet support of local charities— Victor softens. His chemistry with Eden brings unexpected vulnerability, though his secrets still hold weight.
Sierra Graves - Jayda Stephens
Sierra is intelligent, ambitious, and not afraid to challenge her father’s empire. Her relationship with Finn is full of heat, heart, and obstacles—echoing a modern-day Romeo & Juliet set against the Costa Rican coastline. A favourite among viewers, Sierra embodies the balance of elegance and rebellion.
Diego - James Beshore
He is everything the beach represents: humble, loyal, and deeply connected to the land. But his family’s desperation leads him into a world of illegal turtle poaching. Torn between duty and morality, Diego’s redemption arc is one of the most powerful in the series—and his connection with Sage is both tender and transformative.
Angelica - Lara McCulloch
With designer sunglasses and a sharp tongue, Angelica rules the local expat scene with backhanded compliments and calculated charm. She sees Eden as a threat—from yoga class to Victor’s heart—and wages a social war with biting wit and cold smiles. But beneath the power plays lies a woman terrified of losing her throne.
“Play Angelica was deliciously fun. I loved tapping into that evil energy for once.” - Lara McCulloch
In Tides of Desire, every character is layered, lived-in, and unforgettable. Whether it’s a flirtation at a bonfire, a secret stakeout on the beach, or a stolen moment in a yoga studio, each role pulls you in deeper. What’s most remarkable is how quickly the audience connects—not just with one protagonist, but with everyone. You don’t just watch this cast—you root for them.
Themes & Inspiration: Redefining Romance, Power, and Consent
“Tides of Desire” was conceived from my extensive experience in vertical web series, having acted in 19 productions, and a commitment to telling stories that reflect my values. The series champions strong, multidimensional female protagonists, emotionally intelligent male characters, and narratives free from gratuitous violence or coercion. Set in a coastal town grappling with overdevelopment and environmental challenges, it weaves themes of personal growth, community, and consent, while raising awareness of marine conservation, including the protection of turtle populations. Inspired by my passion for tropical romance dramas such as Outer Banks and Surviving Summer, and recognizing a gap in surf and tropical-themed verticals, I sought to create a fresh and resonant viewing experience. Filmed in Costa Rica, the project also holds personal significance, marking a unique collaboration with my son, Indiana Wilson, as Director of Photography—a creative partnership that has been both rewarding and inspiring.
What’s Included in Tides of Desire?
☀ Surfing?: Absolutely. From dawn patrols to epic wipeouts, Tides is soaked in surf culture. Many cast members learned to ride waves during filming—adding real stoke to every scene.
🔥 Sunkissed Faces?: Oh yes. With 30+ degree heat and blazing Costa Rican sun, tans were real and sunburns were inevitable. Shoutout to our incredible makeup artist Kathleen for keeping everyone camera-ready (even under SPF chaos).
🏃 Slow-Mo Running?: Think Baywatch, but vertical. We’ll let you guess which scene gives you that iconic beach-glide energy.
💥 Slaps and Hitting? : Nope. Not here. Unlike many dramas that use violence for shock, Tides stays rooted in emotional complexity—not physical conflict.
🎭 Drama?: Oh yes—but not just one storyline. Tides of000 Desire gives you three layered love stories, each with its own twists, secrets, and slow-burn tension. Whether it’s forbidden romance, environmental activism, or power struggles— you’ll be hooked.
Production Quality & Visual Style
Tides of Desire sets a new standard for visual storytelling in the vertical format. With a curated, cinematic aesthetic and a setting as breathtaking as the story itself, this series is the first-ever tropical vertical drama—bringing sun, surf, and emotion to life in ways the genre has never seen before.
Shot outdoors on the stunning beaches of Costa Rica, the production embraced both beauty and unpredictability. From navigating rainstorms and sudden winds to manifesting sunshine on critical shoot days (yes, really—it worked), the crew adapted with agility and passion. We utilized a three-camera setup—one on the beach, one mounted on surfboards, and a drone soaring overhead—to fully immerse viewers in the surf culture and natural surroundings. From high-speed wave action to quiet emotional beats under the palms, every frame was captured with intention.
What makes this project even more magical is the behind-the-scenes bond. The cast and crew lived together in three villas, forming instant connections that lasted from the airport arrival to the final scene. That sense of family radiates through the screen. Whether it was seasoned surfers hitting the waves or cast members learning to ride just one day before filming, everyone rose to the challenge.
Despite working with an independent budget, our production quality rivals that of traditional cinematic projects—thanks to a young, wildly talented crew, a visionary creative lead, and the shared goal of making something beautiful, together.
Each shot. Each moment. Captured with love, care, and collaboration.
What Sets Tides of Desire Apart?
In a genre often known for melodrama, formulaic romance, and recycled tropes, Tides of Desire rises like a wave—fresh, intentional, and deeply human. Here’s what makes it unlike any vertical drama you've seen before:
1. Independent & Female-Led from the Ground Up
This series was fully self-funded, written, directed, and executive produced by Carin Smolinski, who also appears in the film as the ever-entertaining Mrs. Roper—watch for her! With no corporate strings attached, Tides of Desire is an uncompromised creative vision.
2. Consent is the Foundation
Every love story in Tides is rooted in mutual respect, emotional clarity, and clear consent—a powerful shift from the coercive or abusive dynamics often seen in verticals. Here, intimacy begins with trust, not tension.
3. Strong, Independent Female Leads
Each woman in this story already knows who she is. From Eden, a grounded widow and yoga teacher, to Sierra, an MBA grad with sharp ambition, to Sage, an environmental advocate with a fiery moral compass—these women don’t need saving. Love simply complements the lives they’ve already built.
4. Three Love Stories, Not Just One
Forget the single-romance format—Tides gives you three distinct, evolving love stories, each told from a unique generational and emotional perspective. There’s something to root for in every arc.
5. Multi-Generational Storytelling
This isn’t a teen-only or parent-only story. It’s about real life across generations: Eden in her 40s navigating life after loss, Sierra in her 20s balancing identity and love, and Sage awakening to passion and purpose. Even Angelica, the queen bee of the expat scene, adds a layered, age-defying twist.
6. Authentic Casting
Each actor plays a character that reflects their real age—a rare and refreshing decision in vertical drama, where it’s not uncommon to cast 23-year-olds as CEOs or single parents. Authenticity was non-negotiable.
7. A Values-Based Production Culture
On set, kindness, transparency, and equality weren’t buzzwords—they were practiced. Everyone ate together, solved problems together, and supported one another whether they were first-time actors or seasoned pros.
8. First-Ever Tropical Surf Vertical
Yes, it’s official—Tides of Desire is the first vertical series to blend surf culture, tropical beauty, and coastal activism.
9. Characters Written With the Actors in Mind
Carin wrote each role with specific performers in mind, based on their real personalities and strengths. This tailored approach gives every character natural depth and undeniable chemistry.
10. Open Ending = Sequel Potential
This isn’t the last you’ll see of these characters. The door is wide open for a sequel—so don’t get too comfortable when the credits roll.
11. Inclusive & International Cast and Crew
The cast and crew represent a broad spectrum of identities—LGBTQ+, Indigenous, and international voices—making this not just a global story, but a global team effort.
12. Cast & Crew Bonded Through Real Life (and Wildlife)
Living in three shared villas, the team became family. From scorpion rescues and dinner-crashing dogs to pool parties and game nights, this was more than a production—it was an adventure.
13. Deep Character Development & Preparation
Preparation wasn’t rushed. Actors studied and embodied their roles well before filming—resulting in multi-dimensional characters with emotional complexity and genuine chemistry.
In short? Tides of Desire doesn’t follow the rules—it rewrites them. From its inclusive storytelling to its sun-drenched visuals and value-driven soul, this series is more than a vertical drama. It’s a movement.
Release Date: TBC
Tides of Desire is currently in post-production after wrapping principal photography in Costa Rica in late May 2025. While no official release date has been confirmed yet, the series is being treated with the care and precision of a feature film. The creators are prioritizing quality over speed, ensuring that the final product lives up to its powerful story and vibrant visuals. Stay tuned for premiere announcements, exclusive behind-the-scenes content, and event details as the next wave of Tides of Desire begins to roll in.
Follow Tides of Desire on Instagram: @tides_of_desire_vertical
We are currently open to distribution opportunities for platforms. For inquiries, please contact carinsmo@mac.com