CARIFESTA XV’s Film & Video Programme Set to Illuminate Caribbean Stories on the Big Screen

From gritty documentaries to red carpet premieres, the Film & Video Programme of CARIFESTA XV Barbados is poised to deliver an unforgettable cinematic panorama, boasting more than 150 films drawn from every corner of the region. Audiences can expect powerful storytelling, world class talent and a festival long celebration of Caribbean identity.

“We have a fantastic set of films from across the region and the range of topics is almost endless,” enthused Chantal Graham, Film & Video Lead for CARIFESTA XV, during a recent live appearance on CBC 100.7 FM’s Festival Stage. “From Spiritual Baptist traditions to hard hitting features on domestic violence and pure, joyful entertainment, the line-up proves just how vibrant Caribbean cinema has become.”

One of the major highlights of this year’s programme includes the appearance of Jamaica’s legendary “King of Comedy” Oliver Samuels, OD, who is renowned for the Caribbean classic Oliver at Large and a 54-year career on stage and screen. He will feature in a nostalgic narrative short. The programme is also set to open with A Rock in a Hard Place, a compelling Barbadian documentary on drug addiction that “isn’t afraid to go to the nitty-gritty,” according to Graham. Most narrative entries run under 20 minutes, offering audiences a dynamic showcase of punchy, engaging stories that reflect the diversity and talent of the Caribbean.

Films will be screened island-wide at venues including EBCCI (UWI Cave Hill), the Barbados Museum, Haymans Market, community centres and secondary schools. Graham emphasised the Festival’s commitment to inclusivity: “There’s no space in Barbados that isn’t for every Barbadian. We’re bringing the screens to the people just as much as they’re coming to us.” Many locations are equipped with ramps and situated near public transport, ensuring access for older patrons and those with limited mobility.

In addition to screenings, the Film & Video Programme features an ambitious roster of workshops and training opportunities. Attendees can look forward to sessions on mastering Caribbean storytelling, filmmaking on a budget using mobile devices, applying AI tools in film, music video production led by an LA based Caribbean director, and strategies for bringing regional stories to international markets. A five-day film bootcamp for participants aged 16 and up will provide hands-on training from concept to distribution using smartphones as the primary filming tool. Registration is now open at carifesta.net.

Select films and trailers will also be broadcast on CARIFESTA TV, expanding the reach to regional audiences and those unable to attend in person, subject to filmmakers’ permissions.

A caller summed up the growing excitement during the live broadcast: “This is going to be magnificent with the eyes of the Caribbean on one screen!”

CARIFESTA XV runs from 22 to 31 August 2025. A full screening schedule and workshop details will be released in the coming weeks.

For enquiries, email chantalg.carifestabarbados@gmail.com.

Prepare to see, hear and feel the Caribbean as never before.