Why Black River Film Festival
Inaugurated with a vision to cultivate budding filmmakers and ignite creativity in the heart of rural Jamaica, the festival emerges as a groundbreaking platform on the South Coast. Breaking away from tradition, this unique celebration has chosen to grace an area that traditionally sees fewer cultural events compared to the bustling capital.
The festival’s primary goal is to illuminate and uplift the region, with a special focus on the enchanting narrative of Black River. More than an event, it stands as a catalyst for local talent, inspiring the youth to explore the realms of filmmaking, documentary creation, and various creative expressions, all within reach through their mobile devices.
This inaugural festival acts as a bridge, forging connections between the undiscovered talent of rural Jamaican creatives and international luminaries, including casting directors and producers. This exchange is not just about showcasing; it’s about providing invaluable opportunities for growth, fostering collaboration, and unveiling the rich tapestry of talent that flourishes in the often overlooked corners of Jamaica.
As we embark on this first showcasing, it is not merely an event; it’s a journey of discovery, a celebration of untapped potential, and a testament to the creative spirit that thrives in the heart of rural communities. Welcome to the beginning of something extraordinary.
Why Black River Film Festival
Inaugurated with a vision to cultivate budding filmmakers and ignite creativity in the heart of rural Jamaica, the festival emerges as a groundbreaking platform on the South Coast. Breaking away from tradition, this unique celebration has chosen to grace an area that traditionally sees fewer cultural events compared to the bustling capital.
The festival’s primary goal is to illuminate and uplift the region, with a special focus on the enchanting narrative of Black River. More than an event, it stands as a catalyst for local talent, inspiring the youth to explore the realms of filmmaking, documentary creation, and various creative expressions, all within reach through their mobile devices.
This inaugural festival acts as a bridge, forging connections between the undiscovered talent of rural Jamaican creatives and international luminaries, including casting directors and producers. This exchange is not just about showcasing; it’s about providing invaluable opportunities for growth, fostering collaboration, and unveiling the rich tapestry of talent that flourishes in the often overlooked corners of Jamaica.
As we embark on this first showcasing, it is not merely an event; it’s a journey of discovery, a celebration of untapped potential, and a testament to the creative spirit that thrives in the heart of rural communities. Welcome to the beginning of something extraordinary.
A Celebration Of Film In The Diaspora
Screenings
Event Programme
Seminars
Speakers
Short Film Competition
Jamaica Supports
A Celebration Of Film In The Diaspora
Screenings
Event Programme
Seminars
Speakers
Short Film Competition
Jamaica Supports
A Celebration Of Film In The Diaspora
Film and content serve as impactful and powerful tools, capable of fostering positive change. Jamaica, despite its modest size, boasts a rich cultural heritage that has resonated with international audiences—an impressive achievement. We firmly believe that Jamaica possesses immense potential in the realms of storytelling and content creation.
This exchange is poised to be invaluable in stimulating the growth of Jamaica's creative industry. By fostering connections, strategies, and business collaborations with worldclass and innovative practitioners, we envision a transformative impact on our beloved country.
Film and content serve as impactful and powerful tools, capable of fostering positive change. Jamaica, despite its modest size, boasts a rich cultural heritage that has resonated with international audiences—an impressive achievement. We firmly believe that Jamaica possesses immense potential in the realms of storytelling and content creation.
The festival acts as a bridge between cultures, facilitating the exchange of ideas and expertise that will undoubtedly contribute to the continued success of Jamaica's cultural exports.
A Celebration Of Film In The Diaspora
Film and content serve as impactful and powerful tools, capable of fostering positive change. Jamaica, despite its modest size, boasts a rich cultural heritage that has resonated with international audiences—an impressive achievement. We firmly believe that Jamaica possesses immense potential in the realms of storytelling and content creation.
This exchange is poised to be invaluable in stimulating the growth of Jamaica's creative industry. By fostering connections, strategies, and business collaborations with worldclass and innovative practitioners, we envision a transformative impact on our beloved country.
Film and content serve as impactful and powerful tools, capable of fostering positive change. Jamaica, despite its modest size, boasts a rich cultural heritage that has resonated with international audiences—an impressive achievement. We firmly believe that Jamaica possesses immense potential in the realms of storytelling and content creation.
The festival acts as a bridge between cultures, facilitating the exchange of ideas and expertise that will undoubtedly contribute to the continued success of Jamaica's cultural exports.
Event Programme
Venues: black river beach – black river hotel – black river courtyard
Day 1 - Student-Based - Friday, JUNE 28
9am – 9:30am
Registration and Networking
Monte Carlo Lounge, Santa Cruz, St. Elizabeth
9:30am – 9:45am
Introduction to the Festival Dr. Ava Eagle Brown Festival Director
10am – 10:30am
Masterclass The Science of Storytelling Kwame McPherson
Commonwealth Book Prize Winner
10:30am – 10:45am
Masterclass Q&A
10:45am – 11:15am
Film Screening from Competition
11:15am – 12pm
Lunch Break & Networking
12pm – 12:30pm
Masterclass Penning Pain to Purpose Anita Bailey Communications Relations Education Officer, Ministry of Education
12:30pm – 1pm
Masterclass Q&A & Students’ Presentation
1pm – 1:45pm
Panel Discussion – No Gatekeeping: Gen Z’s Path to Film through Social
Media
1:45pm – 2pm
Panel Q&A
2pm – 2:30pm
Announcement of Film Winners
2:30pm
Feature Film Lady Bird (Directed by Greta Gerwig)
3:30pm
Closing Remarks
Day 2 - Lola’s on the Beach (General Public) - Saturday, June 29
10am – 10:30am
Registration, Networking & Tea
10:30am – 10:45am
Welcome Dr. Ava Eagle Brown Festival Director
11am – 11:30am
Masterclass Crafting Character: An Actor’s Perspective Marcos James (Game of Thrones Actor)
11:30am – 12pm
Fireside Chat & Q&A with Marcos James
Moderator: Kevin Jackson President of Jamaica Animation Network
12pm – 1pm
Short Film Screenings
1pm – 2pm
Lunch and Networking
2PM – 2:45pm
Masterclass Versatility in Acting: From Screen to Stage to Stand-up
Angie Le Mar Actress Director and Producer
2:45pm – 3pm
Q&A with Angie Le Mar
3pm – 4pm
Feature Film – The Jamaica Story (Directed by Mikey T Campbell)
4pm – 4:30pm
Panel – Why Not Black River?
● Dr. Ava Brown, Festival Director
● Kaydian Myers Brown President of the St. Elizabeth Chamber
of Commerce, Black River Chapter
● Claudia Gardner, CEO, Negril Times
4:30pm – 4:45pm
Panel Q&A
4:45pm – 5:15pm
Award Ceremony for Film Competition
Day 3 - Lola’s on the Beach (General Public) - June 30
10am – 10:30am Registration, Networking & Tea
10:30am – 11:15amMasterclass FilmCraft: The Art of Casting and Acquisition
● Jeremy Zimmerman, Director and Producer
11:15am – 11:30am
Masterclass Q&A
11:30am – 12pm
Short Film Screening Flower from a Brook (Directed by Lisa Dawes)
12pm – 12:45pm
Lunch & Networking
12:45pm – 1:30pm
Short Film Screenings
1:30 pm -2:15pm
Panel Discussion – Women in Film
● Justine Henzell, Film Producer
● Jackie Jackson, Film Commissioner of Jamaica
● Angie Le Mar (moderator)
2:15pm – 2:30pm
Panel Q&A
2:30pm – 3pm
Short Feature Film (Mango Wars [Directed by Kyle Chin) and One Patty
[Directed by Gaye Magnus])
3pm -3:30pm
Break
3:30pm – 4:15pm
Fireside Chat – Film Critique vs. Film Creation:
A Conversation between Critic and Actor
● Cornelius Grant, Actor
● Damian Levy, Film Critique
4:15pm – 4:30pm
Fireside Q&A
4:30pm – 5pm
Fireside Chat with Connie Chiume (Black Panther Actress)
● Moderator: Director Dr. Ava Eagle Brown, Festival Director
5:00pm – 5:15pm
Q&A with Connie Chiume
5:15pm – 6:30pm
Feature Film: The Harder They Come (Directed by Justine Henzell)
6:30pm
Until – Bonfire and Music
Event Programme
Venues: STETHS – Lola’s On The Beach
Day 1 - Student-Based - Friday, JUNE 28
9am – 9:30am
Registration and Networking
Monte Carlo Lounge, Santa Cruz, St. Elizabeth
9:30am – 9:45am
Introduction to the Festival Director Dr. Ava Eagle Brown Festival Director
10am – 10:30am
Masterclass The Science of Storytelling Kwame McPherson
Commonwealth Book Prize Winner
10:30am – 10:45am
Masterclass Q&A
10:45am – 11:15am
Film Screening from Competition
11:15am – 12pm
Lunch Break & Networking
12pm – 12:30pm
Masterclass Penning Pain to Purpose Anita Bailey Communications Relations Education Officer Ministry of Education
12:30pm – 1pm
Masterclass Q&A & Students’ Presentation
1pm – 1:45pm
Panel Discussion No Gatekeeping: Gen Z’s Path to Film through Social
Media
1:45pm – 2pm
Panel Q&A
2pm – 2:30pm
Announcement of Film Winners
2:30pm
Feature Film – Lady Bird (Directed by Greta Gerwig)
3:30pm
Closing Remarks
Day 2 - Lola’s on the Beach (General Public) - Saturday, June 29
10am – 10:30am
Registration, Networking & Tea
10:30am – 10:45am
Welcome Director Dr. Ava Eagle Brown Festival Director
11am – 11:30am
Masterclass Crafting Character: An Actor’s Perspective Marcos James (Game of Thrones Actor)
11:30am – 12pm
Fireside Chat & Q&A with Marcos James
Moderator: Kevin Jackson President of Jamaica Animation Network
12pm – 1pm
Short Film Screenings
1pm – 2pm
Lunch and Networking
2PM – 2:45pm
Masterclass Versatility in Acting: From Screen to Stage to Stand-up
Angie Le Mar Actress Director and Producer
2:45pm – 3pm
Q&A with Angie Le Mar
3pm – 4pm
Feature Film – The Jamaica Story (Directed by Mikey T Campbell)
4pm – 4:30pm
Panel – Why Not Black River?
● Director Dr. Ava Eagle Brown, Festival Director
● Kaydian Myers-Brown President of the St. Elizabeth Chamber
of Commerce, Black River Chapter
● Claudia Gardner, CEO, Negril Times
4:30pm – 4:45pm
Panel Q&A
4:45pm – 5:15pm
Award Ceremony for Film Competition
Day 3 - Lola’s on the Beach (General Public) - June 30
10am – 10:30am
Registration, Networking & Tea
10:30am –11m
Masterclass FilmCraft: The Art of Casting and Acquisition
● Jeremy Zimmerman, Director and Producer
11:15am – 11:30am
Masterclass Q&A
11:30am – 12pm
Short Film Screening Flower from a Brook (Directed by Lisa Dawes)
12pm – 12:45pm
Lunch & Networking
12:45pm – 1:30pm
Short Film Screenings
1:30 pm -2:15pm
Panel Discussion – Women in Film
● Perry Henzell, Film Producer
● Jackie Jackson, Film Commissioner of Jamaica
● Angie Le Mar (moderator)
2:15pm – 2:30pm
Panel Q&A
2:30pm – 3pm
Short Feature Film (Family Ties)
One Patty
[Directed by Gaye Magnus])
3pm -3:30pm
Break
3:30pm – 4:15pm
Fireside Chat – Film Critique vs. Film Creation:
A Conversation between Critic and Actor
● Cornelius Grant, Actor
● Damian Levy, Film Critique
4:15pm – 4:30pm
Fireside Q&A
4:30pm – 5pm
Fireside Chat with Connie Chiume (Black Panther Actress)
● Moderator: Director Dr. Ava Eagle Brown Festival Director
5:00pm – 5:15pm
Q&A with Connie Chiume
5:15pm – 6:30pm
Feature Film: The Harder They Come (Directed by Perry Henzell)
6:30pm
Until – Bonfire and Music
Day 1 – June 28th which is focused on young people ages 14- 18 will be held at STETHS.
Day 29th & 30th will be held at Lola’s On The Beah in Black River.
Everything Is Timed To Have The Opportunity To Attend Each Screening And Masterclass.
Speakers
Film Festival Submissions Guidelines
1. Films must be submitted in digital format (preferably MP4) and should not exceed 10 minutes in length.
2. Submissions should be original works created by the filmmaker or production team.
3. All genres are welcome, including but not limited to drama, comedy, documentary, animation, and experimental.
4. Films should be suitable for audiences aged 19-65, taking into consideration mature themes, language, and content.
5. Submissions must include English subtitles if the dialogue is in a language other than English.
6. Filmmakers must complete the submission form in full and provide all required information, including a brief synopsis, director’s bio, and contact details.
7. The submission deadline is May 31st, 2024. Late submissions will not be considered.
8. By submitting your film, you grant the festival organisers the right to screen your film during the festival and use excerpts for promotional purposes.
9. Accepted filmmakers will be notified via email and provided with further instructions regarding screening schedules and promotional materials.
10. For any inquiries or assistance regarding submissions, please contact ava@blackriverfilmfestival.com
We look forward to receiving your submissions and showcasing the best of independent cinema at our festival!
Film Festival Submissions Guidelines
1. Films must be submitted in digital format (preferably MP4) and should not exceed 10 minutes in length.
2. Submissions should be original works created by the filmmaker or production team.
3. All genres are welcome, including but not limited to drama, comedy, documentary, animation, and experimental.
4. Films should be suitable for audiences aged 19-65, taking into consideration mature themes, language, and content.
5. Submissions must include English subtitles if the dialogue is in a language other than English.
6. Filmmakers must complete the submission form in full and provide all required information, including a brief synopsis, director’s bio, and contact details.
7. The submission deadline is May 31st, 2024. Late submissions will not be considered.
8. By submitting your film, you grant the festival organisers the right to screen your film during the festival and use excerpts for promotional purposes.
9. Accepted filmmakers will be notified via email and provided with further instructions regarding screening schedules and promotional materials.
10. For any inquiries or assistance regarding submissions, please contact ava@blackriverfilmfestival.com
We look forward to receiving your submissions and showcasing the best of independent cinema at our festival!
Seminars
Family Ties
"The Harder They Come," a cornerstone of Jamaican cinema, vividly portrays the struggles of urban life in 1970s Kingston through the story of Ivan Martin, capturing the island's rich musical heritage and serving as a commentary on social inequality and Jamaica's turbulent history, ultimately becoming a timeless masterpiece that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.
THE HARDER THEY COME
Seminars
DESTINY
"The Harder They Come," a cornerstone of Jamaican cinema, vividly portrays the struggles of urban life in 1970s Kingston through the story of Ivan Martin, capturing the island's rich musical heritage and serving as a commentary on social inequality and Jamaica's turbulent history, ultimately becoming a timeless masterpiece that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.
THE HARDER THEY COME
Jamaica Supports
The Black River: A Living Tapestry of Jamaica’s Past The Black River, winding its way through the heart of Jamaica’s lush landscape, stands as a silent witness to centuries of history. Named for the dark, tannin-stained waters that flow through its course, this majestic river is a symbol of resilience, endurance, and the passage of time.
Indigenous Roots: Taino Legacy Long before the arrival of European settlers, the Taino people, the indigenous inhabitants of Jamaica, navigated the waters of the Black River. Their cultural imprint on the region, evident in artifacts and archaeological sites, reminds us of the river’s role as a lifeline for trade, sustenance, and community
Colonial Era: A Gateway for Commerce As European powers established their presence in the Caribbean, the Black River became a vital conduit for trade and transportation. Sugar, rum, and other commodities flowed along its banks, shaping the economic landscape of colonial Jamaica. The echoes of this era linger in the architecture of nearby towns and the tales of plantations that once thrived along the river’s edge.
The Black River: A Living Tapestry of Jamaica’s Past The Black River, winding its way through the heart of Jamaica’s lush landscape, stands as a silent witness to centuries of history. Named for the dark, tannin-stained waters that flow through its course, this majestic river is a symbol of resilience, endurance, and the passage of time.
Indigenous Roots: Taino Legacy Long before the arrival of European settlers, the Taino people, the indigenous inhabitants of Jamaica, navigated the waters of the Black River. Their cultural imprint on the region, evident in artifacts and archaeological sites, reminds us of the river’s role as a lifeline for trade, sustenance, and community
Colonial Era: A Gateway for Commerce As European powers established their presence in the Caribbean, the Black River became a vital conduit for trade and transportation. Sugar, rum, and other commodities flowed along its banks, shaping the economic landscape of colonial Jamaica. The echoes of this era linger in the architecture of nearby towns and the tales of plantations that once thrived along the river’s edge.
Maroon Resistance: A River of Freedom The Black River was not only a corridor for commerce but also a refuge for the Maroons, escaped slaves who sought freedom in Jamaica’s rugged interior. The river provided a natural barrier against the pursuing forces, allowing the Maroons to establish independent communities and resist the shackles of slavery.
Ecological Marvel: The Black River Safari Beyond its historical significance, the Black River is a sanctuary for diverse flora and fauna. The lush mangroves along its shores provide a habitat for a myriad of species, including the iconic American crocodile. Today, the Black River Safari offers a unique opportunity to witness this ecological marvel, connecting visitors with Jamaica’s natural heritage.
Black River Film Festival: Bridging Past and Present As we gather for the Black River Film Festival, we celebrate not only the art of cinema but also the living history that courses through the veins of the Black River. Through the lens of film, we honor Jamaica’s cultural richness, acknowledging the river’s role as a silent storyteller of the nation’s journey.
Join us on this cinematic voyage, where the Black River becomes a conduit for storytelling, cultural exploration, and a celebration of Jamaica’s past, present, and future. Welcome to the Black River Film Festival – where history and cinema converge in a powerful, unforgettable experience.
Maroon Resistance: A River of Freedom The Black River was not only a corridor for commerce but also a refuge for the Maroons, escaped slaves who sought freedom in Jamaica’s rugged interior. The river provided a natural barrier against the pursuing forces, allowing the Maroons to establish independent communities and resist the shackles of slavery.
Ecological Marvel: The Black River Safari Beyond its historical significance, the Black River is a sanctuary for diverse flora and fauna. The lush mangroves along its shores provide a habitat for a myriad of species, including the iconic American crocodile. Today, the Black River Safari offers a unique opportunity to witness this ecological marvel, connecting visitors with Jamaica’s natural heritage.
Black River Film Festival: Bridging Past and Present As we gather for the Black River Film Festival, we celebrate not only the art of cinema but also the living history that courses through the veins of the Black River. Through the lens of film, we honor Jamaica’s cultural richness, acknowledging the river’s role as a silent storyteller of the nation’s journey.
Join us on this cinematic voyage, where the Black River becomes a conduit for storytelling, cultural exploration, and a celebration of Jamaica’s past, present, and future. Welcome to the Black River Film Festival – where history and cinema converge in a powerful, unforgettable experience.
Jamaica Supports
The Black River: A Living Tapestry of Jamaica’s Past The Black River, winding its way through the heart of Jamaica’s lush landscape, stands as a silent witness to centuries of history. Named for the dark, tannin-stained waters that flow through its course, this majestic river is a symbol of resilience, endurance, and the passage of time.
Indigenous Roots: Taino Legacy Long before the arrival of European settlers, the Taino people, the indigenous inhabitants of Jamaica, navigated the waters of the Black River. Their cultural imprint on the region, evident in artifacts and archaeological sites, reminds us of the river’s role as a lifeline for trade, sustenance, and community
Colonial Era: A Gateway for Commerce As European powers established their presence in the Caribbean, the Black River became a vital conduit for trade and transportation. Sugar, rum, and other commodities flowed along its banks, shaping the economic landscape of colonial Jamaica. The echoes of this era linger in the architecture of nearby towns and the tales of plantations that once thrived along the river’s edge.
Maroon Resistance: A River of Freedom The Black River was not only a corridor for commerce but also a refuge for the Maroons, escaped slaves who sought freedom in Jamaica’s rugged interior. The river provided a natural barrier against the pursuing forces, allowing the Maroons to establish independent communities and resist the shackles of slavery.
Ecological Marvel: The Black River Safari Beyond its historical significance, the Black River is a sanctuary for diverse flora and fauna. The lush mangroves along its shores provide a habitat for a myriad of species, including the iconic American crocodile. Today, the Black River Safari offers a unique opportunity to witness this ecological marvel, connecting visitors with Jamaica’s natural heritage.
Black River Film Festival: Bridging Past and Present As we gather for the Black River Film Festival, we celebrate not only the art of cinema but also the living history that courses through the veins of the Black River. Through the lens of film, we honor Jamaica’s cultural richness, acknowledging the river’s role as a silent storyteller of the nation’s journey.
Join us on this cinematic voyage, where the Black River becomes a conduit for storytelling, cultural exploration, and a celebration of Jamaica’s past, present, and future. Welcome to the Black River Film Festival – where history and cinema converge in a powerful, unforgettable experience.
Guest appearance from Black Panther
Wakanda Connie Chiume
Guest appearance from Black Panther
Wakanda Connie Chiume
Masterclass
JEREMY ZIMMERMAN – CASTING
JUDITH AUDU – NOLLYWOOD PRODUCTION
AVA BROWN – BOOK TO SCRIPT
NICHOLAS BEVENEY – SCRIPT TO SCREEN
ZENANDE MFENYANA – ACTRESS IN GENERATIONS
KWAME McPHERSON – SCIENCE oF STORYTELLING
CAROLYN CAREW – SUCCESS tO a gREAT dOCUMENTARY
CORNELIUS GRANT – ONE LOVE ( BOB MARLEY FILM)
ZOLISA XALUVA – ACTOR
Expect Surprise Guests on the two days
Masterclass
JEREMY ZIMMERMAN – CASTING
JUDITH AUDU – NOLLYWOOD PRODUCTION
AVA BROWN – BOOK TO SCRIPT
NICHOLAS BEVENEY – SCRIPT TO SCREEN
ZENANDE MFENYANA – ACTRESS IN GENERATIONS
KWAME McPHERSON – SCIENCE oF STORYTELLING
CAROLYN CAREW – SUCCESS tO a gREAT dOCUMENTARY
CORNELIUS GRANT – ONE LOVE ( BOB MARLEY FILM)
ZOLISA XALUVA – ACTOR
Expect Surprise Guests on the two days
Masterclasses
Writing, Acting, Directing, Distribution, Producing
VENUES: BLACK RIVER BEACH – BLACK
RIVER HOTEL – BLACK RIVER COURTYARD
Short Film Competition
For student entries – All Have To Be Shot And Edited On Mobile Devices; Entries Accepted Three Months Prior To Screenings.
Masterclasses
Writing, Acting, Directing, Distribution, Producing
VENUES: BLACK RIVER BEACH – BLACK
RIVER HOTEL – BLACK RIVER COURTYARD
Short Film Competition
All have to be shot and edited on mobile devices; entries accepted three months prior to screenings; short film award ceremony on Saturday, June 30th
PRESS
JAMPRO ENDORSEMENT
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PRESS
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SPONSORS
SPONSORS
