It was back in 2006 that former United States President George W. Bush declared June, Caribbean-American heritage month. In honour of this observation, Our Today will be listing for you a few binge-worthy Jamaican films with a touch of American themes to set your sights on.

Speaking just two days ago, about the celebration, current US President Joe Biden said: “Today, millions of Caribbean Americans strengthen our country through their vibrant cultures, traditions, languages and values.”

As you wind down for the weekend, knowing that you gave this past week your all, here are a few films to feast your eyes on and start conversations at work.

5. Countryman

Cast: Hiram Keller, Carl Bradshaw, Basil Keane

Creator: Dickie Jobson, Michael Thomas

Genres: Drama

Plot: A Jamaican fisherman’s solitary existence is shattered when two young Americans crash their plane. He however protects them from the authorities who have fabricated stories about the crash.

4. Cool Runnings

Cast: Doug. E. Doug, John Candy, Leon Robinson

Creator: Lynn Siefert, Michael Ritchie

Genres: Adventure, Comedy, Family

Plot: After being disqualified from the Olympic trials, a Jamaican sprinter enlists to help a dishonoured coach start the first Jamaican Bobsled team.

3. Sprinter

Cast: Dale Elliot, Kadeem Wilson, Shantol Jackson, Lorraine Toussaint

Creator: Robert A. Maylor, Storm Saulter

Genres: Drama, Sport

Plot: Burdened by an unstable home with his father and brother, Jamaican teen Akeem Sharp hopes that his rise in track and field will finally unite him with his mother who has been living in the United States for a decade.

2. Shottas

Cast: Ky-Mani Marley, Louie Rankin, Spragga Benz

Creator: Cess Silvera

Genres: Action, Crime, Drama

Plot: Deported from the United States, two drug dealers travel to Miami and continue their violent ways.

1. Smile Orange

Cast: Carl Bradshaw, Stanley Ions, Vaughn Crosskill, Glenn Morrison

Creator: Trevor Rhone, David Ogden

Genres: Comedy, Drama

Plot: Based on director Trevor Rhone’s stage play, this film takes a comedic and acidic view of the tourism industry, primarily from the point of view of the character, Ringo, a waiter, con man and hustler.