Storm Saulter | Jamaica | 2011 | 104' | English | English subtitles
"Why is it so easy to die for nothing?" This pressing question, which Kemala asks Ricky, forms the leitmotif of Better Mus’ Come, director Storm Saulter’s impressive debut depicting a tumultuous period in Jamaican history.
In the late 1970s Jamaica is torn by the violent rivalry between the People’s National Party and the Jamaica Labour Party, the two main political parties which seem to have more in common with street gangs than with a political organization. Single dad Ricky is struggling to make ends meet working as a bricklayer. He decides to join one of the parties, stealing ballot boxes by day and cement from construction sites by night. He meets Kemala at a party, and amidst the increasing political chaos surrounding them attempts to pursue a relationship with her. He realizes that in order to survive he, his child and Kemala must leave the city behind.
Saulter not only directed but also shot his first feature film. With an eye for the complexity of this period he has created an arresting drama carried by the soundtrack’s hypnotic reggae beats.
Director Storm Saulter will be present for a Q&A after the screenings.
Rialto: Za 10 aug – 19:30
Rialto: Zo 11 aug – 21:45