The BVI Film Commission has concluded its Summer Film Academy Production Boot Camp, a one-week programme designed to provide aspiring filmmakers in the British Virgin Islands with hands-on experience across all areas of film production. The intensive workshop, held at H. Lavity Stoutt Community College, brought together participants aged 17 to 65, offering real-world training and mentorship from industry professionals.
The programme was conducted in partnership with FaceForward Productions and featured training across multiple departments, including directing, cinematography, acting, script supervision, props, wardrobe, and hair and makeup. Participants rotated through these roles during the week, gaining practical skills and exposure to the day-to-day demands of a functioning film set.
Central to the experience was the production of Between the Lines, an original short film written by academy participant Dakarai Wheatley Adams. Adams, who previously won the Film Commission’s Student Smartphone Film Competition, also earned the top prize in this year’s Scriptwriting Competition. His script was selected as the official project of the boot camp.
“This academy wasn’t just about teaching filmmaking — it was about creating opportunities for the participants, nurturing their dreams and talent, and supporting the development of our local film industry,” said Natalie Hodge, Film Commissioner at the BVI Tourist Board & Film Commission. “It’s also about giving participants access to the tools, resources, and professionals who can share real-world knowledge and expertise to help them thrive in this industry in and beyond the territory.”
Participants received daily instruction and on-set guidance from FaceForward Productions founder CJ Faison and Director of Photography Brittney Janae. Both professionals worked closely with the cohort, providing instruction in pre-production planning, cinematography, location scouting, lighting, scene blocking, and visual storytelling techniques.
“This was special. These emerging filmmakers leave not only with a completed project but with a strategic guide to shaping their future in the industry,” said Faison, an Emmy-nominated and award-winning producer. “Opportunity and exposure are essential—and this programme is dedicated to providing both. I was honoured to be a part of it.”
A three-day Lunch & Learn segment supplemented the training with talks on branding, purpose, and professionalism. Public relations and brand strategist Crystal Frost led the discussions, offering participants guidance on navigating their future careers in the creative sector.
The completed short film is set to premiere during the 284 Excellence Film Festival, scheduled for 30 October to 2 November 2025. It will serve as the first public screening of the participants’ work and marks the culmination of their efforts during the academy.
“Their belief in our youth and our mission to grow the film industry in the Virgin Islands is deeply appreciated,” Hodge said, thanking the programme’s sponsors and guest mentors. “Without the support from our sponsors, this academy would not have been possible.”
The 2025 Summer Film Academy Production Boot Camp was supported by a wide range of community partners, including the BVI Red Cross, CIBC Caribbean Bank Limited, FaceForward Productions, Frozen Imports, the Honourable Lorna Smith, OBE, Honourable Marlon A. Penn, Honourable Vincent W. Wheatley, H. Lavity Stoutt Community College, The Nest Restaurant, Riteway, Skelton Group of Companies, Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina, Seagrape Studios, Working For You Ltd., Village Cay, and VP Bank.
