Dancehall Queen

Friday, July 21 - Saturday, July 22, 2017

35mm print!

Chosen by Marilyn, floor staff.

“High-spirited, energetic and colorful, the new Jamaican film DANCEHALL QUEEN is the story of a humble street vendor who finds an unusual way of getting her family out of a harrowing, violence-ridden ghetto. Emotionally engaging…this contempo fairy tale boasts such an enchanting lead performance by Audrey Reid that the limited theatrical distribution it is currently receiving in major cities seems deserved. An entertaining movie that offers a pulsating reggae soundtrack and scintillating sights of the vibrant island, pic should also travel the festival road as an all-too-rare sampling from Jamaica. Structure is that of a modern Cinderella story, except there is no Prince Charming….Dominating almost every scene, Reid is such a natural talent and photogenic presence that it’s hard to believe this is her screen debut. The other thesps do their jobs proficiently, bringing verve to their roles.

“Realizing the importance of mood and authenticity, co-directors Don Letts and Rick Elgood give their story an undeniable urgency and punch, unabashedly accentuating the broad conflicts and feelings. The film’s most distinctive element is Wally Badarou’s score, which is performed by a gallery of dancehall stars, including Beenie Man (who provides the title track), Bounty Killer, Lady Shaw, Junior Demus and Sanchez. The flashy dresses and multicolored wigs add considerable color to the proceedings. Though old-fashioned, DANCEHALL QUEEN is a movie made straight from the heart.” –Variety

Screening as part of Waverly Midnights: Staff Picks & Late-Night Faves

  • Year 1997
  • Director Don Letts and Rick Elgood

IFC Center does not generally provide advisories about subject matter or potentially triggering content in films, as sensitivities vary from person to person. In addition to the synopses, trailers and other links on our website, further information about content and age-appropriateness for specific films can be found on Common Sense Media, IMDb and DoesTheDogDie.com as well as through general internet searches.