This week, we are talking di tings with multi-award-winning Jamaican filmmaker, J.P. Williams;a lover of Historical Drama who brings stories to life vividly on screen and credits his Aunt for introducing him to visual storytelling. His acclaimed short film The 1938 Unrest, which captures the labor uprising that helped shape modern Jamaica, has received international recognition, including Best Cinematography at the Open World Toronto Film Festival, Best Experimental Short at the Europe Film Festival (2021), and finalist status at the Australia Independent Film Festival. He was also honored with the Prime Minister’s Youth Award for Arts and Culture in 2022, solidifying his role as a filmmaker committed to truth, heritage, and storytelling with purpose.

This year JP was recognized at the 28th Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF), where his short film “BLV” had its African premiere. During ZIFF, he was also honored with the 2025 ZIFF Chairman’s Award, a special jury award for outstanding film, and presented a speech titled “One Love- From Jamaica to Zanzibar.” 

In this episode we explore his love of filmmaking, family, Jamaica, Shrek, historical drama, and more. We also discuss the importance of self-belief, parents not only supporting but gaining an understanding of their children’s dreams, his desire to strengthen the bond between Africa and Jamaica, the important and invaluable role his mother and grandmother have played in his life, and so much more! If you are a lover of cinema, history, Jamaican culture, and stories that resonate across generations, this episode is for you!

So grab your tea, coffee, or a glass of wine, and let's talk di tings! 


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