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Premier Mark Brantley has hailed the international success of the short film Pan Gyul as a major milestone in the development of Nevis’ film industry, following the production’s award-winning debut at the Diversity in Cannes Short Film Festival in France.
Speaking during his recent press conference, Brantley reflected on the progress made since the Nevis Island Administration announced plans to establish a film industry on the island, describing the film’s achievements as evidence of Nevis’ growing creative potential.
“We continue to see substantial gains being made in that particular area,” Brantley said.
The Premier noted that the establishment of the Nevis Film Commission formed part of the Administration’s broader vision to position Nevis as a destination for film production and creative development.
Central to that progress, he said, has been the success of Pan Gyul, a short film produced in Nevis by actress and filmmaker Juliette Jeffers, a Nevis-born creative professional based in the United States.
“Juliette Jeffers came to Nevis to do Pan Gyul, using mostly a local cast and crew,” Brantley stated. “She is a daughter of the soil who wanted to give something back.”
The film recently received international recognition at the Diversity in Cannes Short Film Festival, where it was nominated for six awards and secured two victories.
“I’m proud to announce that Pan Gyul, filmed here in Nevis, won two awards at the Diversity in Cannes Short Film Festival,” Brantley said.
According to the Premier, Jeffers received the award for Best First-Time Filmmaker, while the film also captured Best Original Song for Kaiso Ecstasy by St. Kitts artist Javid Allen.
“Both Ms. Jeffers and Mr. Allen have done something extraordinary,” Brantley remarked. “To win awards associated with Cannes is a tremendous achievement for Nevis and the wider Federation.”
Brantley emphasized the significance of the accomplishment, noting that the Cannes Film Festival remains one of the most respected and internationally recognized film festivals in the world.
Following its success in France, Pan Gyul has also been officially selected for the American Black Film Festival “Voices of Culture Showcase,” with a screening scheduled as part of the festival’s 30th anniversary celebrations at the Miami Beach Convention Center.
Brantley said the recognition has been particularly meaningful because of the film’s strong local involvement, both in front of and behind the camera.
“I don’t know if my words can truly capture how proud I feel as the Premier of Nevis,” he said. “To see a short film done in Nevis, by Nevisians, starring mostly Nevisians, being recognized globally is extraordinary.”
He also praised Jeffers for investing in local talent development through acting workshops and mentorship opportunities conducted on the island.
“She came and hosted acting classes here at NEPAC and at the MGR Park,” Brantley noted. “She didn’t have to do it. She decided she wanted to because she wanted to give something back. It is a perfect example of our diaspora helping to build Nevis.”
The Premier highlighted the involvement of local actors, including lead actress Hadassah Daniel, as further proof that Nevis possesses untapped creative talent capable of competing on the international stage.
“This tells us that we are only limited by the extent of our ambitions,” Brantley said. “I’m extremely impressed with what we have been able to accomplish thus far.”
He expressed optimism that the momentum generated by Pan Gyul will continue to strengthen efforts to establish a sustainable film sector on the island.
“I really hope that we continue to strive and continue to work toward realizing that dream and that vision of creating a substantial film sector here on the island of Nevis,” the Premier added.
The acclaimed short film explores themes of music, ancestral connection, Caribbean identity and the journey of a young girl determined to learn the steel pan and connect with her father.
Pan Gyul held its premiere in Nevis on November 28, 2025, before making its United States premiere at the Pan African Film & Arts Festival in Los Angeles on February 17, 2026.
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