Saint Lucian filmmaker Kyvon Edwin is set to bring an ambitious and culturally significant project to life with his latest film, Bagay-La Nou Pòté (The Things We Carry). A coming-of-age sports drama rooted in Saint Lucia’s vibrant cricket culture, the film will be entirely shot on the island, offering a unique lens into the world of local youth navigating the challenges of island life.
To make this vision a reality, Edwin has launched a crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter, aiming to raise $16,500 USD by March 15, 2025. The funds will cover critical production costs, including cast, crew, and equipment, as Edwin seeks to create a cinematic milestone for Saint Lucian storytelling.
At its core, Bagay-La Nou Pòté follows a young West Indian boy who turns to cricket as a means of escape from the struggles of his fractured home life. His journey highlights the stark contrast between the uplifting world of the sport and the harsh realities of his village, creating a deeply emotional and culturally relevant narrative.
With the local film industry having produced only one film in the past four years, this project stands as a beacon of hope, aiming to put Saint Lucian stories and talent on the global stage. “This is more than just a film—it’s an opportunity to showcase our rich culture, our talent, and our stories in a way that hasn’t been done before,” said Edwin.
Given the high costs associated with filmmaking—where even short films can require budgets ranging from $5,000 to $100,000—Edwin is relying on community support to bring his vision to fruition. Having grown up in a lower-income household in Saint Lucia, he understands the challenges of breaking into the film industry without major financial backing.
His commitment to empowering local talent is reflected in his crew selection, with 80% of the 25-member team either based in Saint Lucia or of Saint Lucian heritage. Beyond production, Edwin plans to host community screenings, ensuring that young Saint Lucians can see themselves represented on screen and engage with the film in meaningful ways.
Edwin is no stranger to success in the film world. As the founder of Roots Productions, he is dedicated to crafting authentic West Indian stories. His directorial debut, Lettre-La, has been showcased at prestigious film festivals, including the Academy Award-qualifying American Black Film Festival and the Essence Film Festival. Currently airing on AspireTV, Lettre-La has established Edwin as a rising talent in the industry.
Now, as part of the Black Film Space Mentorship Cohort, he will direct Bagay-La Nou Pòté under the guidance of a seasoned director with experience at major networks such as CBS, BET, and NBC.
Saint Lucians at home and abroad are encouraged to contribute to the Kickstarter campaign before the March 15 deadline. Donations will not only help finance the production but will also support local filmmakers, actors, and crew members in gaining valuable experience on an internationally recognized project.
For those interested in learning more or contributing to the campaign, Edwin can be reached at info@kyvonedwin.com or +1-758-725-1722.
With the community’s support, Bagay-La Nou Pòté has the potential to make history, shining a light on Saint Lucia’s film industry and showcasing the nation’s rich cultural tapestry to the world.
