Modern Jamaican Twist on Shakespeare’s Classic

Award-Winning Actor Confirmed for Jamaica Independence Day London Screening of “Romeo n Juliet 4EVA”

“Romeo n Juliet 4EVA,” a unique film adaptation of Shakespeare’s classic, is set to receive a special Jamaica Independence Day screening at Brixton’s Ritzy Cinema on Tuesday, August 6, 2024.

This modern take on the timeless love story is directed by the acclaimed Paul Bucknor and stars award-winning actor Sheldon Shepherd, who will both be in attendance for the event.

The film, which reimagines Shakespeare’s tale in the vibrant and challenging locales of Kingston and Port Royal, Jamaica, has been hailed for its fresh perspective.

The Guardian praised the film, saying, “Jamaican teens breathe fresh life into Shakespeare romance.”

The story centers on Dean, a schoolboy embodying a contemporary Romeo, who ardently pursues his classmate Erica, his Juliet.

The principal actors were sourced from Haile Selassie High School, located in the inner-city community of Payneland, adding an authentic touch to the narrative.

Sheldon Shepherd, celebrated for his role in “Better Mus’ Come,” which earned him the Best Actor Award at the American Black Film Festival (ABFF) in 2012, and for his performance in Idris Elba’s directorial debut “Yardie,” stars in this adaptation.

Shepherd’s recent portrayal of Neville Garrick, Bob Marley’s art director, in Reinaldo Marcus Green’s biopic “Bob Marley: One Love” further cements his reputation as a versatile and dynamic actor.

Paul Bucknor, who is reunited with Shepherd after their collaboration on “Better Mus’ Come,” is also known for his work as co-producer on the Oscar-nominated film “The Full Monty” (1997). Bucknor’s commitment to this project spans several years, with a particular focus on transforming high school students from stage performers to screen actors, thereby introducing Shakespeare to a new audience.

“This film has been many years in the making and I was committed to taking the high school kids from stage to silver screen and deliver Shakespeare to a totally new audience,” Bucknor commented.

“I believe this predominantly teenage cast, mostly from disadvantaged backgrounds, serves up convincing performances with a unique Jamaican twist.”

The film’s conception began with the production of “Conquering Shakespeare,” a reality TV competition produced by Bucknor in 2019. This competition challenged high schools to adapt Shakespearean plays for the stage within a Jamaican context, culminating in the vibrant and youthful adaptation that is “Romeo n Juliet 4EVA.”

The film features a talented young cast led by Shanice Gowan and Dashawn Miller.

The screening at Brixton’s Ritzy Cinema promises to be a significant event, featuring a Q&A session with both Sheldon Shepherd and Paul Bucknor.

The screening will commence at 6 pm, providing an opportunity for the audience to engage directly with the creators and gain deeper insights into the making of the film.

For more information about the film and to watch the trailer, visit Romeo n Juliet 4EVA. The Guardian’s review can be found here.

Join the celebration of Jamaica’s Independence Day with this innovative film that brings Shakespeare’s classic to life with a distinctly Jamaican flair.