The British Virgin Islands Tourist Board & Film Commission (BVITBFC) proudly announces the 284 Excellence Film Festival (284XFF), a landmark event aimed at bridging the gap between Caribbean literature and Cinema. Spearheaded by the BVI Tourist Board & Film Commission, this inaugural festival will run from 30th October to 2nd November 2025, offering a vibrant showcase of global cinema with a powerful spotlight on Caribbean stories and voices.
The 284 Excellence Film Festival with its focus on Caribbean Literature in Motion: Caribbean Stories Reimagined is more than just a cinematic event — it’s a cultural movement. Set against the awe-inspiring backdrop of the BVI, the festival promises a unique space for filmmakers, authors, students, and cinephiles to connect, collaborate, and celebrate storytelling through film. With an emphasis on adapting Caribbean literature for the screen, the 284XFF challenges creatives to transform stories penned by Caribbean authors into compelling visual short stories.
Film Commissioner Natalie Hodge said, “Uniting Creative Voices, Celebrating Caribbean Stories” is not just our theme—it’s our mission. From emerging student directors to seasoned filmmakers around the world, participants will engage in screenings, networking events, and panel discussions that explore the art and impact of film.”
“We are deeply grateful to the BronzeLens Film Festival, Miami Film Festival and Micheaux Film Festival for their incredible support and collaboration of the launch of the inaugural 284 Excellence Film Festival. As we continue to celebrate excellence in film worldwide, we look forward to strengthening these relationships and building bridges that unite and amplify diverse creative voices.” the Film Commissioner added.
Festival Objectives & Highlights
284XFF aims to:
• Celebrate Caribbean storytelling through authentic and compelling film adaptations.
• Showcase international excellence, accepting submissions from across the globe.
• Promote the BVI as a cinematic and cultural destination.
• Support talent development, particularly among youth and local creatives.
• Foster cross-cultural exchange through collaborative artistic opportunities.
Categories at a Glance
National Competition
• Local Lens: Short films (40 minutes or less) by BVI adult filmmakers.
• Student Smartphone Contest: “Say Less” (5–7 minutes)
• Viral Video Challenge (90 seconds) featuring youth content creators.
Regional Competition – Caribbean Chronicles
• One Story. Many Visions.: Multiple interpretations of a single Caribbean literary work.
• Your Author. Your Story.: Filmmakers adapt a published Caribbean work of their choice. International Competition
• Legends of the Lens: Celebrating award-winning global films competing for Best of the Festival (Shorts – 40 minutes or less and Features – 90 minutes or less).
• Your Author. Your Story: Diaspora filmmakers adapt Caribbean literary works (40 minutes or less).
Honourary Selections
Special out-of-competition screenings highlighting exceptional works curated by the filmmakers from around the world.
Brand Identity & Vision
Inspired by the elements of our logo—the Windmill, Turtledove, and Sailboat—we symbolise resilience, vision, and the international reach of Caribbean stories.
Strategic Collaborations
The 284 Excellence Film Festival actively seeks partnerships with film festivals worldwide to share award-winning content, support filmmakers, and foster industry engagement.
Visitor Accommodation
To support visiting filmmakers, guests, and festivalgoers, the official hotel partner for the 284 Excellence Film Festival is Cane Garden Bay Beach Hotel by MHV. The hotel is extending discounted room rates exclusively for individuals participating in or attending the festival. Visitors are encouraged to book early via https://canegardenbaybeachhotel.net/ to take advantage of these special rates and enjoy an immersive BVI experience.
Join the Movement
“This festival is our invitation to the world, to experience the beauty, resilience, and creativity of the Caribbean through the cinematic lens. We’re not just telling stories—we’re documenting history,” Film Commissioner Hodge said.