Best Caribbean Film of 2024: Behind Closed Doors
Festival Success
The Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival (TINFF) has announced Jamaican suspense drama Behind Closed Doors as the Best Caribbean Film of 2024. Produced by Kingston-based Yaad Boiiz Productions, the film was chosen from a selection of nearly 100 films from around the world.
Additional Screening
The film’s success at the festival was evident, with a prolonged ovation from the audience following a Saturday screening. In response to the strong audience reactions, an additional screening was scheduled on September 14.
Award Acceptance
Orville Matherson, CEO of Yaad Boiiz Productions and producer of the film, accepted the award during the festival’s closing night gala. In his speech, Matherson acknowledged the hard work of his team in Jamaica and expressed gratitude for their contributions.
"It’s a labor of love, and the reaction we received last night was incredible," Matherson said. "As a producer, I can tell you right now—I am in heaven!"
Challenges and Perseverance
Matherson also reflected on the challenges the team faced in completing the film, which began production in 2018. The journey spanned six years, with delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and changes to the cast and crew.
"It took every ounce of perseverance from myself and the team around me to stay the course," Matherson said. "Day in and day out for over six years we kept at it, without knowing for sure if this film would ever get done and see the light of day. So to receive this acclaim in Toronto… means a great deal."
Film Details
Behind Closed Doors, directed by Marc Anthony Deacon and written by Tachelle Ferron, was filmed entirely in Jamaica. The story follows a young college student who turns to a wealthy Jamaican entrepreneur for financial help, only to discover that his aid comes at a dangerous cost.
Awards and Distribution
Since debuting on the festival circuit earlier this year, Behind Closed Doors has won several awards, including Best International Feature Film at the Switzerland Film Fest and Best Caribbean Drama at the International Black Diversity Film Festival. Matherson is now working on securing distribution for the film and recently participated in Fame Week Africa in Cape Town, South Africa, as part of the JAMPRO Export Max Mentorship Programme. Negotiations with major distributors and streaming platforms are ongoing, and work on the film’s soundtrack is nearing completion.
Premieres
Premieres for Behind Closed Doors are planned for Jamaica and other international locations in the near future.
FAQs
- What is the title of the film?
Behind Closed Doors - What is the genre of the film?
Jamaican suspense drama - Who is the producer of the film?
Orville Matherson, CEO of Yaad Boiiz Productions - When did filming begin?
2018 - How long did it take to complete the film?
Six years - What are the awards the film has won?
Best International Feature Film at the Switzerland Film Fest and Best Caribbean Drama at the International Black Diversity Film Festival