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Jamrock: The birth of Jamaican rock climbing

"Jamrock" follows the remarkable journey of Kai Lightner, a 12-time national climbing champion and the visionary founder of "Climb for Change." Against the backdrop of Jamaica, renowned for its vibrant culture but not traditionally associated with rock climbing, Kai embarks on a transformative mission.

The film delves into the heart of Jamaica's emerging climbing community, where passion and determination thrive despite limited resources and recognition. As a sport historically dominated by white individuals, Kai seeks to challenge stereotypes and foster inclusivity by bringing the thrill of rock climbing to a diverse range of enthusiasts.

Driven by a profound sense of purpose, Kai sets his sights on an ambitious goal: establishing a rock climbing gym within the iconic National Stadium of Jamaica. Through his unwavering dedication and the support of local climbers, he endeavors to create not just a facility, but a symbol of empowerment and opportunity for the Jamaican community.

"Jamrock" celebrates the spirit of unity and perseverance as Kai Lightner and his team navigate obstacles, forge connections, and ultimately inspire a nation to reach new heights, both on and off the climbing wall. With breathtaking landscapes, stirring personal narratives, and the universal language of sport, the film is a testament to the transformative power of passion, community, and the pursuit of one's dreams.

  • Gareth Leah
    Producer
    The Longwall, No dreams left behind, The story of a trout, Orlando Bloom: To The Edge, Race to Survive:Alaska
  • Gareth Leah
    Director
    The Longwall, No dreams left behind, The story of a trout
  • Murilo Vargas
    Cinematographer
  • Gareth Leah
    Cinematographer
  • Gareth Leah
    Drone Operator
  • Kai Lightner
    Key Cast
  • Juan Luis Torribio
    Key Cast
  • Vaughn Brown
    Key Cast
  • Drew Herder
    Editor
    The Longwall
  • Charlie Humpal
    Graphics
    The Long Wall
  • Project Type:
    Documentary, Short
  • Genres:
    Adventure, Outdoor
  • Runtime:
    16 minutes 51 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    July 1, 2024
  • Production Budget:
    20,000 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • Country of Filming:
    Jamaica
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital DSLR
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
  • Digital Cinema Package:
    Unavailable
Director Biography - Gareth Leah

Free thinker, light bringer, and game shaker. Gareth believes in equality, inclusivity, and diversity. Founder of an interdisciplinary team of innovators, artists, and digital guru's that endeavor to be the change they want to see in the world.

As an adventure enthusiast and big wall climber, Gareth "Gaz" Leah has dedicated the past 15+ years to the search for places few humans have ever been, and uncovering the wonders of what is to be found.

With an insatiable sense of curiosity in people, place, and culture - his films have distinct human feeling that cut to the fabric of human experience and uncover the core values of the subject in focus.

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

I have always strived to use media as a tool for good. As media professionals, we wield incredible power and influence through the films we create to enact change. We are an amplifier for voices and opinions that do not posses the skills or outlets to be heard. When I first met the climbers in Jamaica, I witnessed an incredible drive in the face of adversity to pursue a sport that has so many barriers such as a lack of knowledge, equipment, and access. Through this film, It is my intention to highlight the powerful human spirit that Jamaicans posses, and lift some of those barriers the climbers face.