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Last night (February 23) was the official premiere of the short film, Sugar Dumplin, at the Sunken Garden, Hope Gardens.
Sugar Dumplin, a touching Jamaican short film, explores dementia with sensitivity and compelling performances. Featuring Jamaica’s “King of Comedy,” comedian Oliver Samuels in a rare dramatic role.
The film premiered at the Pan African Film & Arts Festival in Los Angeles before having two screenings in Jamaica. The first screening took place on Friday (February 21) in the Bob Marley Museum Theatre on Hope Road, and the other at Sunken Gardens, Hope Gardens.
Writer-director Tristan Barrocks and his production team, which includes Donisha Prendergast, praised Samuels for his moving portrayal of a 71-year-old living with dementia.
The film is now being submitted to prestigious festivals such as Sundance, Cannes, ABFF, and Essence. Barrocks sees this as a pivotal moment for Jamaica’s film industry, highlighting the rich storytelling emerging from the Jamaican diaspora.
Several people showed their support for the film. Scores of fans showed up elegantly dressed. In the audience sat Minister of Culture, Entertainment, Gender, and Sports, Olivia “Babsy” Grange, and scores of fellow actors and entertainment professionals.
At the end of the premiere, several individuals gave tributes to the comedic legend. Actors Sheldon Shepherd and Everaldo Creary each took the stage to give tribute to Samuels' contribution to their journey. Owen Blakka Ellis and Sherando Ferril also gave tributes, with a surprise tribute from reggae sensation Protoje.