The success of the Bob Marley: One Love Biopic has again awakened global attention to Jamaican stories, its people and the cultural impact. Given the renewed highlight on the island, here are seven classic Jamaican-inspired films.
This Jamaican classic tells the story of aspiring singer Ivanhoe Martin whose character is played by reggae legend Jimmy Cliff, and the dark path he is forced into after his encounter with corrupt personalities within the industry.
After recording his first song, “The Harder They Come,” a bitter dispute with a manipulative producer, led him to resort to criminality for money, which also grew into murder as his character gradually gained notoriety among his community while his song topped the charts.
This Jamaican-produced film was directed by the late Legendary Perry Henzell with the story written by the iconic Trevor Rhone.
The Lunatic-1991
Based on a novel by Anthony C. Winkler, this 1991 film tells the story of a Village “madman,” Aloysious,( played by legendary actor Paul Campbell) who meets Inga, a visiting German photographer, who is a nymphomaniac who uses sex to influence persons into troublesome activities.
Smile Orange–1976
A big screen depiction of the popular Trevor Rhone play, Smile Orange delivers a playful satire on the “somewhat acidic” perspective of the local tourism business which is depicted by the main character Ringo (Carl Bradshaw), a con man and waiter.
Third World Cop-1999
Arguably one of Jamaica’s most noted films internationally, Third World Cop saw an all-star cast of Audrey Reid, Carl Bradshaw, Paul Campbell and Mark Danvers deliver an explosive performance in this 1999 action thriller.
IMDb Synopsis
“A police officer returns to his neighborhood in Kingston, Jamaica to find himself in conflict with his childhood friend who is now the right-hand-man of the local gang-lord in a gun-running racket.“
Dancehall Queen-1997
This 1997 classic follows the journey of a street vendor, Marcia(Audrey Reid), who disguises herself to be part of a popular dance contest in which her foes also enter for a chance to win the coveted title of “Dancehall Queen.”
Shottas-2002
This 2002 Jamaican movie, which stars Reggae Dancehall singers Ky-mani Marley, Spragga Benz, and Louie Rankin, was also among the more noted films starring Jamaicans internationally, which aimed to push local talents on a mainstream platform.
Better Mus Come-2011
An emotionally charged film, this Storm Saulter directed flick, zones in on the high degree of political volatility of the 1970’s. The award-winning movie highlights the gang recruitment of the parties to enforce declared political agendas in the respective communities.
Cool Runnings-1993
Based on the history-making participation of Jamaica’s Bobsled team at the 1988 Winter Olympics, “Cool Runnings” not only became a slogan but a cult classic for movie lovers. It showcased the spirit of resilience, pride and ambition of a nation willing to defy the odds in what was deemed improbable feats.
