Vincentian filmmaker and visual artist, Akley Olton, has achieved a significant milestone with his short documentary, "Madulu, The Seaman." The film is set to premiere on November 1, 2024, as part of the second season of IF/THEN Presents on the prestigious Criterion Channel. This marks the first time a Vincentian filmmaker's work will be featured on this renowned platform.
"Madulu, The Seaman" offers a poignant exploration of Barrouallie's whaling traditions, resilience, and community life during the COVID-19 pandemic. Directed by Olton, the film has garnered international attention, screening at numerous film festivals, including Hot Docs in Canada, the Festival Internacional de Cine de Gibara in Cuba—where it won Best Short Documentary—the Green Screen Film Festival in Trinidad and Tobago, the Pianeta Mare Film Festival in Naples, Italy—receiving Special Mention from the Jury—and the Hairouna Film Festival.
The film's inclusion in IF/THEN Presents is a significant achievement for both Olton and Caribbean cinema. IF/THEN, a documentary program founded by the Tribeca Film Institute, supports short-form nonfiction films by empowering underrepresented storytellers through funding, mentorship, and professional development opportunities. Olton's journey with IF/THEN began in 2021 when "Madulu, The Seaman" was selected for the IF/THEN Shorts program during the IF/THEN Hulu Workshop, providing resources and financing that elevated his vision.
Reflecting on this achievement, Olton stated, "Madulu, The Seaman highlights the strength of tradition and the deep connection between the people of Barrouallie and the sea. It's an honor to have this story told on the Criterion Channel, as it brings the rich history of my homeland to a global audience."
This accomplishment not only showcases the talent and storytelling power of St. Vincent and the Grenadines but also underscores the growing impact of Caribbean cinema on the world stage. With "Madulu, The Seaman" now licensed by the Criterion Channel and featured as part of the IF/THEN Presents series, the future looks promising for regional filmmakers pushing the boundaries of storytelling.
To watch the film, visit the Criterion Channel here: Madulu, The Seaman.
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