Finalists in JCDC FIWI Short Film Competition named

The top eight finalists in the JCDC FIWI Short Film Competition for 2025 have been named. They are: Paris Taylor – How to Not Gossip; Robert Tyme – Bun Dem; Seyvonnie Campbell – Signs of Inclusion; Brian Johnson – Inside Voice; Omaall Wright – Tun Back Blow; George Malcolm – Lick; Shemar Grant – Pssst: A Cat Call for Help; and Narry Berry – Eyesore.

A platform that continues to spotlight emerging filmmakers and authentic local storytelling, this year’s competition features a strong public health awareness component, with a partnership from the Ministry of Health & Wellness. Filmmakers were challenged to creatively incorporate the theme ‘Stop: You’re Eating Too Much Salt’, using film as a tool to encourage lifestyle awareness, behavioural change, and national conversation around healthier living. The shortlisted films interpret the theme through powerful, relatable and imaginative storytelling.

Acting Director of Arts Development and Training at the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC), Shaun Drysdale, who conceptualised the FIWI Short Film Competition, noted that this year’s staging reflects both growth in the competition and maturity within Jamaica’s film sector.

“The stories are bolder, the production quality is stronger, and the way the filmmakers have woven a national public health message into authentic Jamaican narratives is impressive. Film is one of the most powerful ways for us to tell our own stories, and what audiences will see this year is creativity, relevance, and purpose all coming together. These eight films represent the future of Jamaican cinema, and viewers can expect to be moved, challenged, and inspired,” Drysdale said.

As the nation continues to navigate and recover from recent challenges, the JCDC remains committed to therapy through art, using creative platforms such as film to foster expression, healing, and social reflection, the entity said in a press release.

As is customary, the public will once again play a key role in the competition through the Viewer’s Choice Award. All eight films are now available for public viewing on the JCDC’s YouTube channel, and the winning film in this category will be determined by the highest number of views recorded during the designated viewing period, which will close ahead of the awards ceremony.

The JCDC encourages Jamaicans at home and in the diaspora to watch, share, and support these talented emerging filmmakers and their compelling stories.

The FIWI Short Film Awards ceremony is scheduled for January 2026, when the winners across all categories will be formally announced.