A stellar line-up of local and international film industry leaders has been drafted for the 2nd staging of the Black River Film Festival (BRFF), with their presence igniting the shores of Black River, St. Elizabeth.

Being held at Cloggy’s on the Beach from June 27–28, 2025, this dynamic festival brings together a vibrant mix of global and local film industry leaders, creatives, and cultural influencers. The impressive lineup of international and regional figures includes Netflix USA series producer, Samad Davis; USA film producers, Angela White and Dolapo Erinkitola; French TV Channel, Canal+; Jamaica’s film commissioner, Jackie Jackson.

The list also includes celebrated Nollywood actress, Juliet Ibrahim; Director of Programming African Fiction Channels at Canal+ International, Cedric Pierre-Louis from France and Martinique; South African television station owner, Ruth Phume Global Media Collaborations Champion, Wendy Parkies from South Africa and popular British travel blogger, Jetsetter Jackie. 

Also joining the festival are Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, Floyd Green, who hails from the parish; Kevin Jackson, senior consulting officer at JAMPRO; and Stephanie Hazle, President of Women in Film Jamaica. Adding an unforgettable musical touch will be Reggae stars, Duane Stephenson and Bugle, who will deliver special live performances on June 28. 

BRFF’s global reach extends to the guests with attendees traveling from Ghana, France, the UK, and beyond. Dedicated to nurturing emerging filmmakers, spotlighting Jamaican talent, and bridging rural Jamaica to the international film stage, the BRFF promises two unforgettable days of film, music, and cultural celebration.

48 film entries this year 

Building on its success, the festival received 48 film entries this year which is 29 more than last year — with submissions coming from as far as the Persian region. This edition of the BRFF is a celebration of stories, connections, and family fun, offering a unique blend of cinematic excellence and creative collaboration. Festivalgoers can look forward to captivating film screenings from talented filmmakers worldwide, a Distribution & Co-Production Forum, where industry professionals can network and explore new opportunities.

There will also be artisan shops showcasing local craftsmanship, handmade goods, and delicious treats, offering attendees the chance to support local artisans and take home something special.

Festival organiser, Ava Eagle Brown shared her excitement about this year’s event, saying, “This year, the festival has truly grown. The number and quality of entries have blown us away. We are doing things bigger and better than last year. We have participants coming from Paris, Ghana, France, the UK, and beyond, which is incredibly exciting. We also have international press. I want to personally call on all Jamaicans who missed last year to come out and experience it. We have outstanding films lined up, including a special project that I myself, along with my producers and directors, have been working on— it’s my first time stepping into producing, and I know it’s going to be an amazing experience.”

The Black River Film Festival is proudly supported by its main sponsor, the Jamaica Tourist Board, alongside Tourism Product Development Company, Guardian Life, Yaad Bridge Entertainment, and Member of Parliament for St. Elizabeth North Eastern, Delroy Slowley.