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Madulu
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BRIDGETOWN, Barbados — The Barbados Independent Film Festival (BIFF) 2025 on Friday showcased Madulu, The Seaman, a poignant documentary by Vincentian filmmaker Akley Olton, as part of its environmental selection.

The screening marked a heartfelt homecoming for Olton, whose filmmaking journey began right here on the island. 

Reflecting on the screening, Olton said that he first picked up a video camera in Barbados as a student at the University of the West Indies, Faculty of Cultural and Creative Arts.

“In many ways, my filmmaking journey started right here on the rock. To have my film selected for BIFF 2025 means so much to me. It’s a full-circle moment.”

Madulu, The Seaman has been making waves globally since its release.

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The film, which explores the tradition of whaling in Barrouallie, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, has garnered critical acclaim and numerous awards.

It was recently featured on the prestigious Criterion Channel, making it one of the first Caribbean films to achieve this honour.

Akley Olton
Vincentian filmmaker Akley Olton.

The documentary has also been celebrated at international festivals, including the Hot Docs Canadian International Film Festival, the Olympia International Film Festival in Greece, and the International Film Festival “Fishermen of the World” in France. 

The film delves into the lives of the fishermen of Barrouallie, highlighting their resilience and the complex relationship between tradition, survival, and environmental sustainability.

Through the eyes of “Tall 12”, an elder whaler, and a young apprentice, the documentary poses the thought-provoking question: “Whaling: Survival or barbarism?” 

Olton expressed his gratitude to the BIFF organisers for their support and encouragement.

“This screening is a testament to the possibilities that exist for Caribbean filmmakers. It’s proof that our stories matter, and that we can create work that resonates both locally and globally. I’m deeply thankful to the BIFF team for providing a platform to share this story and for their commitment to amplifying Caribbean voices.”

The Barbados Independent Film Festival, founded in 2016, continues to be a beacon for storytelling that addresses pressing sociocultural and environmental issues. This year’s festival celebrates resilience, innovation, and the power of film to drive social change. 

“Madulu, The Seaman is not just a film; it’s a celebration of Caribbean identity, creativity, and the enduring spirit of its people. As Akley Olton’s work continues to inspire a new generation of filmmakers across the region, it serves as a reminder of the transformative power of storytelling,” a press release said.

For more information about Madulu, The Seaman and Akley Olton’s work, visit www.akleyolton.com or http://www.akleyolton.com. 

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