The High Commission of Canada in Jamaica, in collaboration with the GATFFEST Film Festival, has announced the highly anticipated international premiere of the Canadian Jamaican film ‘When Morning Comes‘ directed by acclaimed filmmaker Kelly Fyffe-Marshall.

 This screening will take place at the GATFFEST Film Festival on June 21, 2023, at the Palace Cineplex, Sovereign Centre. Director Kelly Fyffe-Marshall, along with the talented local cast and crew, will be in attendance to celebrate this significant event.

‘When Morning Comes‘ chronicles the poignant journey of Jamal, a young Jamaican boy faced with the heartbreaking decision of leaving his home to live in Canada.

Troubled by an incident at school, Jamal’s mother makes the difficult choice of sending him abroad out of concern for his safety and future. However, this decision strains their relationship, presenting an emotional journey depicted in the film. With its lyrical and visually captivating style, the movie beautifully explores the complexities of relationships while paying tribute to the strength and sacrifice of single mothers.

This cinematic offering showcases exceptional Jamaican talent, including a remarkable debut performance by breakout star Djamari Roberts, a 10-year-old from the parish of Portland. The cast also features accomplished actors including Shaquana Wilson, renowned veterans Paul Campbell and Oliver Samuels, as well as talents such as Naomi Cowan and Jarden Crooks and a cameo appearance by social media influencer Simon Tomlinson.

“We are thrilled to present the international premiere of ‘When Morning Comes‘ at the GATFFEST Film Festival,” stated Emina Tudakovic, Canadian High Commissioner to Jamaica.

 “This film beautifully captures the complexities of familial relationships and showcases the rich talent of Canadian and Jamaican filmmakers, fostering cultural exchange and strengthening the bond between our nations.”

Fyffe-Marshall expressed her enthusiasm for the film’s international premiere noting, “finally bringing ‘When Morning Comes‘ to Jamaica is a dream come true. This film is a testament to the power of storytelling and the universal themes it explores. I am grateful to have worked with such a talented cast and crew, and I hope the Jamaican audience connects with the film’s emotional journey.”

GATFFEST, the largest community film festival in the Caribbean, will host its 11th edition from June 19 to July 2. Providing an ideal platform for the international premiere of ‘When Morning Comes‘, GATFFEST is organised by the Mona Social Services and UWI Community Film Project at the University of the West Indies. Initially created to showcase films produced during the film and production training course, the festival has evolved into a celebration of diverse storytelling.

This premiere also coincides with a week of activities organised by the Canadian High Commission to celebrate Canada-Jamaica relations and Canada Day on July 1, further enhancing the cultural exchange and camaraderie between the two nations.