All of Saint Lucia is excited as a new local production hits Caribbean Cinemas. Heartfall, a newly launched 90-minute film, made its debut on the big screen this week. Heartfall is an extraordinary project which was written, produced, directed and edited by Saint Lucian Elijah Anatole. The film has attracted attention from throughout the region, already in Guyana, Antigua, St. Marten and St. Kitts, and has also caught the eyes of a major international organization.
The film, which was shot entirely on location in Saint Lucia, stars Kareem Stanley (Adam), Chianne Cools (Kate) with Dr. Stephen King playing the role of Mr Eli. The all-Saint Lucian cast sought to adequately address issues relating to men’s mental health in 90 minutes.
Elijah Anatole says while addressing men’s mental health was the main issue, he also wanted to make the point that quality productions can come from Saint Lucia given the chances.
According to Anatole, while his personal investment in the project overall was approximately EC$250,000, he received zero financial assistance for this film. He also highlighted that he sacrificed going the route of a film festival simply because he wanted Saint Lucians to experience the project first, and not have to wait a year for its release. Speaking about men’s health, Anatole explains that for far too long men have suffered in silence, being ridiculed for showing emotions and seen as weak if they do. He highlighted the grim reality that men commit suicide at a much higher rate than women. He made it clear that while many may find creative art and entertainment in his work, his purpose is solely to bring into focus the harsh realities of everyday life.
Thus far, according to the young film director/producer, the response to Heartfall “has been overwhelmingly positive.”
Since the launch of Heartfall, a number of new avenues have opened up. Elijah Anatole has already started working on another film.
Moviegoers who have gone to see the production have rave reviews and calls it a “must see.”
There is a possibility that the world will get the opportunity to experience this unique all Saint Lucian production with Netflix already making contact.