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The 1938 Unrest

The short film “The 1938 Unrest” is based on the labour disturbances which took place in Jamaica in May 1938. These spontaneous labour riots and strikes spread islandwide from the sugarcane fields of Frome, Westmoreland to the wharves at the waterfront of Kingston.

“The 1938 Unrest” perfectly captures the emotions of the protagonist, an extremely angry and highly frustrated labourer. He is determined to create significant change by advocating on behalf of other workers for the improvement of working conditions, increase wages and the removal of colonial oppression. These riots forever changed the landscape of the Jamaican people. It signaled the birth of modern Jamaica with the formation of the BITU and other trade unions.

  • Justin-Paul Williams
    Director
  • Justin-Paul Williams
    Writer
  • The Studio Eight
    Producer
  • Jayden Chambers
    Key Cast
  • Project Type:
    Short
  • Runtime:
    6 minutes 7 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    April 30, 2021
  • Production Budget:
    500 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    Jamaica
  • Country of Filming:
    Jamaica
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    21:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    No
Director Biography - Justin-Paul Williams

The film is directed, shot and edited by JP Williams of The Studio Eight. JP is a skilled, self taught content creator who has demonstrated his artistic talent as he captures and presents material showcased in numerous productions, eg. television ads, music videos and short films. He continues to offer a fresh perspective with his story-telling skills to the film industry. With “The 1938 Unrest”, JP hopes to bring awareness to Jamaicans and the wider Caribbean about the importance of the historic events of that period.

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Director Statement

I am very happy with how this film has turned out and the reviews we have been getting. It's a joy to see that persons are receiving the film as we intended and are being impacted in such a personal way. When I decided to tell this story, I wanted to find a way to bring this piece of history to life again, in a way that persons nowadays could relate to. I am very pleased to have worked with such professional and talented people - and I must say BIG UP to everyone who helped to make this film happen! Thanks to Teflonzincfence and Jahlil for their contribution on the featured soundtracks, as well as Jayden Chambers who did a fantastic job at depicting the struggle of the workers. I look forward to the ripples this film will continue to form as it spreads across the Caribbean and eventually across the world - and I invite all persons to be apart of the conversation!