The Minister of Tourism & Transport, Culture & Sport, the Hon. Owen Darrell, and the Minister of National Security, the Hon. Michael Weeks, attended the 8th Annual Crime Stoppers Bermuda Film Experience on Saturday evening. The event featured a compelling screening of The Waterboyz, written and directed by Coke Daniels and produced by Errol Sadler.
The film sparked a vital discussion about youth, identity, and violence with the panel members - Producer Tirrell D. Whittley, Executive Producer Dolapo Erinkitola, and Bermudian Associate Producer Sia Spence.
The discussion, moderated by filmmaker Dr. Dana Selassie, posed poignant questions to the panel regarding race, film, and identity, sparking meaningful dialogue about the impact of media representation on Black communities.
“Film is a powerful tool for storytelling and preserving our history" stated Minister Darrell. “The Waterboyz exposes the importance of highlighting under-represented voices and unique stories. We look forward to supporting film projects like this here in Bermuda and continuing to work with our artists, especially our young men.” Minister Darrell also thanked Crime Stoppers for hosting the event, emphasising its role in fostering important community conversations.
When considering the film's connection to Bermuda, Minister Weeks stated, “This film mirrors the challenges faced by young Black men in Bermuda, particularly with violence and limited opportunities.
"It forces us to confront these realities and work together toward solutions that support our youth. I am extremely proud of Sia Spence and her team for bringing this project to life."
Spence, a Creative Executive and Screenwriter shared her deep appreciation to the Bermudian audience for their support of her first credited film and urged the Government to continue investing in film talent in Bermuda.
“Bringing international filmmakers together with Bermudian talent shows the potential of film as part of Bermuda’s tourism industry. I hope the Bermuda Tourism Authority and the Ministry will explore ways to develop this sector and share Bermudian stories with the world.”
This screening underscored the power of film in shaping narratives and fostering important discussions within the Atlanta community and how it parallels the challenges we face in Bermuda. The Waterboyz trailer can be found here http://bit.ly/4io2y6Q and viewed on Apple TV, Amazon Prime, and Tubi.