Caribbean Film with Jamaican Lead makes Waves at Cannes, Heads to Essence and TIFF Film Festivals
In an unprecedented stride for Jamaican and Caribbean cinema, the feature film Chokehold, starring the exceptional Jamaican actress Sherando Ferril, has been showcased at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival and is set to make appearances at both the Essence and the Toronto International (TIFF) Film Festivals. This marks a significant milestone as Chokehold is the first film of its kind with a lead actress who not only hails from but also resides in Jamaica, setting a new precedent in the international film arena.
Sherando Ferril’s riveting performance has been central to the film’s success, earning accolades for her portrayal of a complex character navigating through themes of gender violence—a topic that resonates globally. The film’s reception at Cannes was nothing short of spectacular, paving the way for its upcoming presentations at other top-tier festivals, spotlighting Jamaican talent on an unprecedented scale.
The significance of Chokehold extends beyond its artistic achievements. It represents a pivotal moment for Jamaica’s cultural export in the arts and entertainment sector, akin to the global influence seen with Jamaican sports figures. The Jamaican government has recognized this potential, investing one billion dollars into the Jamaica Screen Development Initiative (JSDI), aiming to amplify local content on a global stage. This initiative underscores a strong belief in the transformative power of Jamaican films to compete internationally.
According to Joel Ayuk, Director of Chokehold “Our film was very well received at Cannes and the feedback was amazing. The comments on our cinematography, our music and the performance of our actors rivaled any other film on the roster.”
As Sherando Ferril leads this cinematic movement, the need for robust local support becomes ever more apparent. Just as Jamaica has historically rallied behind its athletes, there is a burgeoning call for similar support for artists and filmmakers who are now carrying the flag on cultural and creative fronts. Corporate backing is especially crucial, providing not only financial resources but also enhancing the global perception of Jamaica as a hub of diverse and compelling storytelling.
The involvement of local corporations in supporting arts and entertainment mirrors a strategic investment in Jamaica’s cultural legacy and global reputation. As Chokehold continues to garner international attention and acclaim, the spotlight on Sherando Ferril and her groundbreaking role will hopefully ignite a wider recognition of the arts as a vital component of national pride and international identity.
With the film’s journey from Cannes to Tribeca and Essence, Sherando Ferril and Chokehold are not just participating in festivals; they are making history, inspiring a new generation of filmmakers, and advocating for the support that Jamaican artists deserve.
To date Chokehold has won more than a dozen awards at global film festivals. Chokehold was shot in St Martin and is written, produced and directed by Joel Ayuk of Cani Studios.
