The inaugural Black River Film Festival is set to make waves on the shores of Black River, St Elizabeth, from June 27 to 30, 2024.

Founded and organized by Dr Ava Brown, a Diasporan returning to St. Elizabeth, this groundbreaking festival aims to shine a spotlight on the often-overlooked stories and talents of the vibrant South Coast, cultivating a platform for economic and cultural growth.

The festival, taking place at Independence Park, Central Road in Black River, marks a departure from tradition by choosing rural Jamaica as its venue.

Dr Ava Brown, the visionary founder and organizer said: “Returning to St. Elizabeth, I was inspired to initiate the film festival to spotlight the often-overlooked stories and talents of the vibrant South Coast. My goal is to create a platform that not only celebrates our rich cultural heritage but also fosters economic and cultural growth in this dynamic region of the island.”

This groundbreaking event is not merely a film festival; it is a journey of discovery, celebrating untapped potential and showcasing the creative spirit thriving in the heart of rural communities.

The festival’s primary goal is to act as a catalyst for local talent, inspiring youth to explore the realms of filmmaking, documentary creation, and various creative expressions, all within reach through their mobile devices.

The festival connects rural Jamaican talent with international talent, fostering growth, and collaboration, and revealing the diverse talent in Jamaica’s often overlooked corners.

The St. Elizabeth Chamber of Commerce-Black River Chapter has publicly supported the festival, highlighting its importance in promoting creative arts and boosting interest in Black River’s historical town.

“We believe that an event of this nature will undoubtedly bring renewed interest to the Town of Black River, as we boast on the Jamaican landscape a rich cultural and historical heritage that is losing its significance and, in other ways, unexplored,” the chamber stated.

“And so we applaud the entire management team of the Black River Film Festival group and its supporters for their efforts which are largely supporting other significant activities in the Parish, highlighting the significance of our Towns and by extension our parish as a place to live, work, do business, and raise families,” it added.

Member of Parliament for St Elizabeth South Western, Floyd Green, whose constituency will host the Black River Film Festival, believes Black River is the ideal venue for the prestigious event.

“I can think of no better home for a festival of this nature than Black River. St. Elizabeth has already developed worldwide acclaim for providing a platform for some of the island’s most creative literary talents and now Jamaica’s most storied capital provides the perfect backdrop to catalyze our film industry. Looking forward to not only hearing from the best and helping to highlight and showcase some of Jamaica’s talent but also excited to play host to the world,” he said.

The Black River Film Festival also presents an opportunity for filmmakers to participate in workshops and masterclasses, further enhancing the benefits of the festival.

These sessions will provide insights and skills to both aspiring and experienced filmmakers, enriching their cinematic journey.

Masterclasses will be led by luminaries that include the United Kingdom’s Jeremy Zimmerman – Casting Director; Nigeria’s Judith Audu – Nollywood Production; Dr Ava Brown – Book to Script; the UK’s Nicolas Beveney – Script to Screen; Kwame McPherson – Science of Storytelling; and South African Carolyn Carew –Success to the Great Documentary.

An exciting panel of guests has also been assembled to lead stimulating discussions. They include Zenande Mfenyana (Actress in Generations), Zolisa Xaluva (Kings of Joburg) Connie Chiume (Black Panther) and Cornelius Grant (One Love Movie).

The Commonwealth Short Story Prize 2023 Winner, Caribbean and Global Mr McPherson, expressed his support, stating: “A first for Black River, the Film Festival provides Jamaica and the island’s South Coast, a forum for homegrown and Diasporan talent to be seen by a local, regional, and international audience. As the first Jamaican to win a global literary award and a storyteller, I am proud to be contributing and participating in this groundbreaking event that will generate great benefits for St Elizabeth, filmmakers, residents and visitors alike.”

Beveney also emphasized the importance of film and media in the diaspora, saying, “Film and media in the diaspora are the most important and overlooked mediums. It is a source not only of rich cultural learning experiences but important in the documentation of our experiences and historical events. Our platforms and sources for audiences must connect, learn and share. Jamaica has a diverse and rich heritage which is overlooked but are some of the most important exports in popular culture. It is one of the cornerstones in the Caribbean and has high importance in being the foundation of the launching of the festival.”

The Black River Film Festival is being made possible in part because of the incredible support of several sponsors including True Bargain Hardware, Courier Jamaica, Smart Stop Auto Supplies as well as Jojo’s Pizza among others.