Port Of A Prince

The Genesis of this film came to me on my birthday (April, 2022) after receiving a viral clip of a boy soldier in Haiti professing his pride of affiliation with a notorious Haitian gang. The clip was immensely jarring and it immediately prompted me to ponder how this boy ended up in those circumstances. Did he have a family? Was he ever in school? Did he have any hobbies? Or was his only choice to give his entire being to the gang. These questions compelled me to craft a short screenplay, and the urgency of the topic pushed me to shoot it as soon as possible.

As the writer/director, I felt it necessary to film on location in Haiti despite the political and insecurity crisis that plagued the nation during our production. As a Haitian-American filmmaker, it was imperative to me to create an authentic portrayal of Haiti's complex reality and to honor the resilience of its people. Throughout the process of filming we were faced with numerous challenges that arose from the ongoing crisis. Yet, it was the vibrant culture, breathtaking scenery, and indomitable spirit of the Haitian people that inspired us to persevere. By shooting on location, we were able to showcase the beauty of Haiti and create a platform for the voices of its people to be heard. The authenticity of our film was deeply rooted in our decision to film in Haiti. The bustling streets, lively markets, and stunning surrealism served as a character in the story, shaping the narrative and infusing it with life. Any other location would have deprived the film of its heart and soul.

In the face of a fierce political and insecurity crisis, our commitment to the project and the Haitian people was unwavering. We chose to tell this story, not in spite of the challenges, but because of them. Our artistic responsibility was to bear witness, to document, and to give a voice to the voiceless. Now that "Port Of A Prince" has been completed, we are proud to present a powerful and evocative portrait of Haiti that transcends the confines of the screen and resonates with audiences worldwide. Our pursuit of authenticity, even in the face of adversity, has resulted in a work of art that not only entertains but also informs and enlightens. We hope that this film sparks a conversation on the current state of the country, emphasizing the dire need of the youth and their futures as fellow citizens of the same world we all collectively share.