PM says Jamaica must position itself as a global source of screen content

Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness says Jamaica must position itself not only as a picturesque backdrop for international productions, but as a global source of screen content, ownership and creative enterprise.

Addressing a special Jamaican screening of “Possession”, a five-part supernatural thriller produced by Snowed-In Productions, in association with Sky Studios, at the Courtleigh Auditorium in St. Andrew on June 20, Dr Holness said the production demonstrates the possibilities that emerge when Jamaican talent, locations and stories are given serious consideration.

He noted that Possession employed more than 300 Jamaican cast and crew members and injected approximately US$4 million into the local economy through jobs, contracts, training opportunities and investments in production capabilities.

“Tonight, we see a glimpse of what is possible when Jamaican talent, Jamaican locations, and Jamaican stories are taken seriously,” the Prime Minister said.

Stressing the economic importance of the sector, he argued that film extends beyond culture and storytelling and must be viewed as a serious industry capable of generating employment, exports, tourism opportunities and entrepreneurial growth. “Film is culture and storytelling, but it is also work. It is business. It is enterprise,” he added.

Dr Holness said the Government established the Jamaica Screen Development Initiative (JSDI) to bridge the gap between creativity and financing and to create a sustainable industry that can develop young talent and earn foreign exchange.

The Prime Minister noted that the programme has received hundreds of applications, demonstrating that the talent and ambition exist locally, while several productions have already benefited since the initiative was launched.

He emphasised that financing alone is insufficient and pointed to the need for a broader ecosystem comprising trained crews, post-production facilities, efficient permit processes and strong producers. According to Dr Holness, Jamaica has already proven that its culture can transcend borders through reggae, dancehall, athletics, food and fashion, adding that film should become the next platform through which the country speaks to the world.

While welcoming foreign productions, the Prime Minister said the long-term objective is to build an industry in which Jamaican companies finance, produce and export their own content and share in the ownership and value created.

He commended Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO) President, Shullette Cox; Minister with responsibility for Investment, Senator the Hon. Aubyn Hill; Film Commissioner, Jackie Jackson, and the Jamaica Film Commission for positioning the country as an attractive film destination. He also praised Cinecom Productions and Sky Studios for providing significant exposure for Jamaica.

Dr Holness paid tribute to acclaimed Jamaican filmmaker, Storm Saulter, recalling that he first met the director about 15 years ago when Saulter was working on “Better Mus’ Come”.

The Prime Minister said he has always been impressed by the filmmaker’s achievements and acknowledged that Jamaica had not invested enough in the industry over the past five decades since the release of the classic film, “The Harder They Come”.

“We are actually putting money into the industry because we believe in the industry. And I believe in the industry. And I see Storm as a great ambassador for film in Jamaica,” he said.

The Prime Minister also recognised British writer Karla Crome, noting that her Jamaican heritage forms part of the creative foundation of the series and underscored that Jamaica’s identity extends beyond its geographical boundaries.

Reaffirming the Government’s commitment to the sector, Dr Holness said support would continue through financing, policy, facilitation and partnerships aimed at making Jamaica a destination for creative investment and production.

He encouraged young Jamaicans interested in writing, acting, directing, editing, animation and production to hone their skills and protect their ideas, while inviting international partners to help build the industry.

“To our international partners, Jamaica is open for serious creative business,” he said, adding that Possession should be viewed not only as a celebration but also as the beginning of a new chapter for the local screen industry.

Possession follows Claudia, a biracial lawyer who travels from the United Kingdom to Jamaica to contest an inheritance claim, only to discover that the estate at the centre of the dispute is the same place that has haunted her nightmares.

Directed by Storm Saulter and created by British writer Karla Crome, the limited series consists of five episodes and brings together an international and Jamaican production team. It is scheduled to premiere on Sky Atlantic and the streaming service NOW in the United Kingdom later in 2026.