Fredi Nwaka and Peter Andre with the Caribbean Diaspora at Gold Coast Film Festival 2025

Last night, the Gold Coast Film Festival hosted the world premiere of “JAFAICAN,” and I was fortunate enough to attend with a group of born Jamaicans who were equally curious about this UK production. The burning question on our minds: what would Australian and UK actors know about Jamaica? The answer surprised us all.

Cultural Respect Takes Center Stage

Far from the cultural missteps we occasionally see in international productions, “JAFAICAN” treats Jamaican culture with genuine respect and authentic representation. The film, directed by UK-based writer and producer Fredi Nwaka, brings together an impressive cast including Peter Andre in the lead role of Gary “Gazza” Buckle, alongside Wil Johnson of “Emmerdale” and “Hollyoaks” fame.

What truly elevates this comedy is the inclusion of Jamaican legends Oliver Samuels and reggae icon Sizzla, whose involvement speaks volumes about the film’s cultural authenticity. As one Jamaican in our viewing party remarked, “If Sizzla put his name to this, you know it’s respecting the culture.”

A Comedic Journey Between London and Jamaica

The premise follows East London’s Gary Buckle (Andre) a small-time crook who finds himself needing to raise £35,000 for his grandmother’s care home fees. A chance overheard conversation sets him on a hilarious journey that takes him from the streets of London to the vibrant landscapes of Jamaica.

The film’s tagline says it all: “Learn to be a Jamaican… or die trying.” What unfolds is a fish-out-of-water comedy that had our entire audience in stitches, particularly when Gazza attempts to master Jamaican patois and navigate cultural norms completely foreign to him.

Authentic Jamaica Shines Through

Instead of relying on stereotypes, “JAFAICAN” showcases the real Jamaica. Filming took place at actual locations across the island rather than on constructed sets, allowing local businesses and communities to benefit from the production. One unscripted scene even features the “Simple Touch” sound system in St. Elizabeth, capturing the authentic energy of Jamaica’s vibrant music scene.

A Director’s Jamaican Connection

Perhaps what makes the film work so well is director Fredi Nwaka’s long-standing connection to Jamaica. Not only has he been visiting the island annually for the past decade through his “Creating Memories” tour business, but Nwaka also has roots in London’s sound system culture, where he deejayed as “Fredi Kruga” in the 1980s.

“I was the biggest ‘Jafaican’ back then,” Nwaka told The Weekly Gleaner. “I would eat African food at home and come out and talk with a Jamaican accent on the street.”

The Verdict

As the credits rolled and the lights came up at the Gold Coast Film Festival, the consensus among our Jamaican contingent was clear “JAFAICAN” is not just funny; it’s a love letter to Jamaica that respects the culture while delivering genuine entertainment.

After its Gold Coast debut, the film heads to London for its UK premiere on May 20 at the Odeon Cinema, with a Jamaican premiere planned for August. For Australian audiences, keep your eyes peeled for wider release dates.

If you’re looking for a comedy that balances laughs with cultural authenticity, “JAFAICAN” delivers on all fronts. Fully endorsed by Dancehall Reggae Australia and our Jamaican friends alike, this is one film that brings the heart and humor of Jamaica to the international stage.

Rating: 4.5/5 stars

Word from the Jamaican Community

President of the Jamaican Association of Queensland: “This film is a great little escape from all the negativity engulfing the world these days. Unlike any other Jamaican-themed production that I’ve seen, it’s a light hearted parody of what would normally be viewed as a violent and taboo subject in Jamaican culture.”