Kingston Paradise, directed by Jamaican filmmaker Mary Wells, has received an official nomination, with seven other films – the jury award for ‘Best Feature Narrative’ – at the 22nd Annual Pan-African Film Festival (PAFF).

The seven films include two major films out of South Africa, and one each from Europe and the United States.

PAFF is one of the largest and most prestigious Black Film festivals in the United States, founded by award-winning Hollywood actor, Danny Glover.

This quirky new Jamaican film follows Rocksy, a small-time hustler, who, with lady friend Rosie, devises a daring but not-so-clever plan to steal a fancy sports car right under the owner’s nose, after which things rapidly go downhill, as they fight to survive the chaos and their broken dreams and aspirations.

The film stars Chris ‘Johnny’ Daley, Munair Zacca, Camille Small, Gregory Nelson and Paul Shoucair, alongside an amazing local and international cast and crew, produced by Mary Wells and Frances-Anne Solomon, with a score by acclaimed Canadian composer John Welsman.

In September, Kingston Paradise received the ‘Audience Award’ for Best Feature at the 2013 CaribbeanTales Film Festival in Toronto.

According to Wells, while the PAFF nomination is just that and the competition is extremely stiff, it is an achievement worthy of note. Wells explained that the film had very little resources and is still trying to raise funds.

TRULY SPECIAL

“For a small film, it’s set for something truly special,” said Wells.

Wells is an award-winning independent film director/ writer and producer from Jamaica with more than 20 years experience in TV and film production.

Kingston Paradise is her first feature narrative and she’s the first woman to do a feature film from Jamaica.

The festival began last Thursday, and screenings will be at the RAVE Cinemas, 15 Baldwin Hills, Crenshaw Plaza, Los Angeles, beginning tomorrow.