Out Deh is a documentary which portrays a new generation of Jamaicans in transition, determined to get out of old and set structures in society and culture – and contribute with their fresh mindset and strength to a new understanding of the island of Jamaica. By diving intensely into the reality of the three protagonists Shama, Romar, and Bakersteez, the film offers us a deep insight into their daily struggle of searching for their individual way into a bright, self-determined future: Shama without any question being the best and first professional surfer of the island. Bakersteez is just starting a worldwide career as one of the uprising rappers creating and adding to a new Jamaican sound. Romar's rough upbringing in the Tivoli Garden ghetto touches us profoundly while we can share his dreams and thoughts as he puts his first steps out. In Out Deh, first-time director Louis Josek makes us aware of a new, full-of-hope movement on Jamaica, a Caribbean island whose youth, like in so many other countries in the region, was battered by economic struggle, social injustice, and a paralysing history. Josek's classic cinema aesthetics combine with a modern approach to filmmaking and his aim to discover the struggle and the real beauty of his protagonists to build respect and compassion for young people who follow their visions with courage and commitment. The movie was shot in Jamaica, Japan and Hawaii.
An award-winning venue in the heart of Byron Bay. Lovingly called ‘Festival HQ’ the inaugural festival occurred here in January 2006 screening just 55 Australian Films and BBFF has grown steadily every year and grown its presence across the Community Centre.
The films screening here are eclectic, colourful, quirky, sometimes challenging, sometimes inspirational, but always intriguing, just like Byron’s own uniquely diverse community. Completed in late 2002, The Byron Community Centre is a world-class venue in the heart of Byron Bay. This multi-purpose facility hosts a great variety of activities including performing arts events, exhibitions, conferences, seminars, receptions and functions. It also accommodates the Bay FM Community Radio, Liberation Larder, Planet Corroboree (an Aboriginal art and craft shop) and Fundamentals (a natural health store).
The Centre plays a major community development function in the Byron shire. Over 20+ years it has established many community services, helping create over 60 jobs and bringing in over $10 million to the local community.