“FLIGHT,” is a short film made by Jamaicans that continues to wow audiences as it tours the international film festival circuit, including the esteemed “Belize Film Festival” which has been receiving and judging films since 2005. It was at the Belize Film Festival that FLIGHT took home “Best Short Film.”
Kia Moses, co-director of the film, expressed how surreal it was to her to have made such a prestigious film. Her wish was to produce a film that would reach people all over the planet. Despite the praise of critics, Moses is also humble enough to admit her doubts that her film had anything special to it. This attitude changed after receiving accolades from the “Black Women Film Network.” Between receiving commendation from that organization and then Guadeloupe’s Nouveaux Regards Film Festival, bolstered her faith that she had created something special.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iS4WFp-cb94
FLIGHT is a story about a young Jamaican boy who longs to travel across the stars and explore the cosmos, if only to become closer to the mother he lost. The boy’s father, still quite active in his life, repeatedly shoots down the boy’s optimistic dreams until he discovers the reason why his young son aspires to join a space program. Wishing to help his son achieve his dreams, the father not only supports his son with all of his heart but is even brought on as the co-pilot of the boy’s imaginary space shuttle.
While each film festival has its own stipulations for submission and excellence, Moses believes that the human element of her story is what has continued to grab the hearts and minds of audiences. Moses opines that the natural development of the characters, the realistic, at-home depiction of Jamaica and the dynamics between father and son are the major draws.
When asked about other film-makers, Moses believes that it is never too late to begin a career as a director. Despite the imminence of her 35th birthday, Moses has no formal film training, only some familiarity with advertising. She advises anyone with dreams of filming to not overthink themselves or their decisions, just run and see how things turns out; fight any perfectionist tendencies, allow the picture to flow naturally and you will be amazed at what you have when you step back and see the final product.
Chabil Mar Villas wishes to congratulate Kis Moses and Adrian McDonald and wishes the duo continued success.
