On Wednesday, May 21, 2025, the Pavillon Afriques at the Cannes Film Festival buzzed with the vibrant spirit of the Caribbean during an exceptional event: Caribbean Day, a full day dedicated to the rich culture, cinema, and human stories of this region.
Organized under the leadership of Mark Walton and supported by the Jamaica Tourism Board, official sponsor, this gathering brought together film professionals, institutional representatives, creators, and Caribbean culture enthusiasts through film screenings, panel discussions, and networking sessions. It was a unique day that showcased the Caribbean’s storytelling power, revealing the creative strength and growing global influence of the islands in the audiovisual industry.
This event was made possible thanks to the vision and commitment of Karine Barclais, founder and organizer of the Pavillon Afriques. With recognized expertise in the audiovisual and events sectors, Karine has been dedicated for several years to promoting African and diasporic talents and cultures at the Cannes Film Festival. Under her leadership, Pavillon Afriques has become a key space for meetings, exchanges, and cooperation between film professionals and cultural actors from Africa and the Caribbean.
Caribbean Day Program
Panel Discussion – Scene Change: Reimagining the Caribbean Film Industry
This roundtable brought together thought leaders from various sectors to discuss how the Caribbean film industry can thrive through strategic alignment with tourism, investment, and global partnerships.
Screening – The Tallest Boy (documentary)
Directed by Life Garland, this documentary explores the life and work of Peter Minshall, a renowned Trinidadian carnival artist. The film features interviews with personalities such as musician Machel Montano, performer Wendell Manwarren, and poet Muhammad Mukwakil, offering insight into Minshall’s profound influence on art and culture. The screening was followed by a talkback and reception.
Panel Discussion – Telling Our Stories: Spotlight on Caribbean Filmmakers
Dynamic Caribbean filmmakers shared their experiences crafting authentic narratives, navigating production and distribution challenges, and connecting local stories with global audiences.
Networking Session – Caribbean Connection: Where Storytellers Meet Stakeholders
A networking event connecting Caribbean filmmakers with international distributors and media professionals to foster collaboration, explore co-production opportunities, and open new horizons.
Film Screening – Double Play (feature film)
This drama, directed by Ernest Dickerson, is an adaptation of Frank Martinus Arion’s novel Dubbelspel. Set in Curaçao, it explores themes of poverty and wealth through a high-stakes domino game that changes the lives of its players. The cast includes Colin Salmon, Lennie James, Isaach de Bankolé, Saycon Sengbloh, Mustafa Shakir, and Louis Gossett Jr. The screening was followed by a talk and reception.
Live Performance & After Party – The Final Scene: A Caribbean Celebration
The day closed with a soulful live performance by singer John G, island cocktails, and a festive wrap party celebrating Caribbean culture.
Meeting Mrs. Maurice Dindaine – Jamaica’s Tourism Representative in France
Our media had the pleasure to meet Mrs. Maurice Dindaine, Sales Executive France for the Jamaica Tourism Board, who attended Caribbean Day for the first time at the Cannes Festival. She actively represents Jamaica in France and works daily to connect the destination with the right networks and amplify its visibility.
Jamaica, a jewel of the Caribbean, is much more than a paradise island: it is highly photogenic, rich in cultural history, and a favored location for international film productions. Many films have been shot there, including several James Bond movies, inspired by author Ian Fleming’s time on the island.
“There are so many festivals in Jamaica, like the Reggae Sumfest, and so many creative people to meet here in Cannes. This day is a valuable opportunity to build meaningful connections and show that our island is also a cultural and cinematic destination,” Mrs. Dindaine told us.
A Strategic Platform for Visibility
Caribbean Day is a highlight of the Festival where the Caribbean’s voice takes its rightful place in the global cinematic conversation. It also emphasizes the importance for institutions like the Jamaica Tourism Board to have an increased international presence to better showcase their tourism offerings and creative potential.
Jamaica is no longer just attracting travelers; it is positioning itself as a creative cultural hub, welcoming and forward-looking. The recent participation of the Jamaican Minister of Tourism at the Arab Travel Market in late April underscores this strategic expansion.
Discover Jamaica’s colorful universe and plan your visit at VisitJamaica.com.
