CASTRIES, March 22, 2025 – The Heartfall premiere is set to bring both glamour and emotional weight to Caribbean Cinemas Megaplex 8 in Choc Estate on May 4, when Artlas Studios unveils its latest feature film at a red carpet event. The production, written and directed by emerging Saint Lucian filmmaker Elijah Anatole, has already generated local buzz for its compelling storyline centered on love, loss, and the silent mental health struggles faced by men.
As part of the premiere, the film’s cast, production team, sponsors, and specially invited guests will walk the red carpet before the screening. A limited number of tickets will be made available to the public, offering fans a unique opportunity to view the Heartfall premiere alongside the filmmakers and cast and take part in photo opportunities with the stars.
Following the red carpet launch, Heartfall will officially open to the public for theatrical viewing on May 24th and 25th at the same venue. The first public screening is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on May 24th, with two additional showings on May 25th at 3:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Tickets will be available at the cinema on the day of each showing.
Exploring heartbreak and healing through a Caribbean lens
Starring Kareem Stanley and Chianne Cools, Heartfall tells the story of a man descending into emotional turmoil after the sudden loss of the love of his life. Unable to cope with the overwhelming grief, he isolates himself—only to be confronted by an unexpected opportunity to love again. What follows is a raw and redemptive journey through sorrow, healing, and ultimately, hope.
Thematically, the film touches on love, grief, emotional resilience, and the stigma surrounding mental health—particularly among men in Caribbean societies. In many communities across the region, emotional vulnerability is often viewed as a weakness, which has led to an under-discussed mental health crisis, especially among young men.
“This film is a passion project that not only tells a powerful love story but also sheds light on the mental health struggles that many men endure in silence,” Anatole said. “I hope it resonates with audiences and sparks meaningful conversations.”
The subject matter makes Heartfall not just a romantic drama, but also a social commentary designed to break taboos. Its core message—that healing is possible and vulnerability is a strength—resonates powerfully at a time when mental wellness is gaining overdue attention.
Visually immersive and emotionally authentic
While the film’s emotional themes are central to its impact, the visual experience is equally intentional. Although shot digitally, Heartfall was crafted with care to mimic the texture and warmth of traditional film stock. Elijah Anatole, who oversaw the film’s editing and color grading himself, applied a meticulous post-production process designed to evoke a sense of visual nostalgia.
“Every detail—from the lighting to the grading—was crafted to evoke authenticity,” Anatole said. “We wanted audiences to not only watch this story but to feel it.”
This approach brings a stylistic depth to the production that complements its emotional core, enhancing the audience’s immersion in the character’s inner world. Viewers are expected to experience both the visual richness and emotional gravity of a story that is simultaneously intimate and universal.
Community support powers the Heartfall premiere
The making of Heartfall was not only a creative endeavor but also a collaborative effort deeply rooted in the Saint Lucian community. Anatole extended heartfelt gratitude to numerous local sponsors and contributors who played critical roles during production.
“A huge thank you to Ottis Effs and KFC St. Lucia, who generously provided lunch and dinner for the entire shooting period and also allowed us to film at one of their locations,” Anatole said.
Other key supporters included Bryan Devaux of Adventure Tours St. Lucia, who provided one of his buggies for on-location filming, as well as Dr. Natasha St. Aimee and Malcom Augustin, who opened their newly built home to the production team.
Additional partners include Elena’s Ice Cream, Massy Stores SLU, Bambooze, Toraille Waterfall ATV Park, IGY Marina, Lazarus Funeral Home, Coco Palm Hotel, and Allen Chastanet.
These partnerships not only reflect the film’s grassroots origins but also highlight a growing enthusiasm for supporting Saint Lucian film and cultural expression. “Of course, I am also immensely grateful to the entire cast and crew for their dedication to this film,” Elijah Anatole added.
Going global with a Saint Lucian voice
While Heartfall is set to make its theatrical debut in Saint Lucia, plans are already underway for an international rollout. Artlas Studios has confirmed that the film will be released in the United States and other global markets in the near future, potentially bringing this locally rooted narrative to audiences far beyond the Caribbean.
The international release represents a milestone for Saint Lucian cinema, signaling a broader shift as regional filmmakers push for global visibility. Through heartfelt storytelling and strong production values, Heartfall positions itself as both a culturally specific and globally relatable film.
“Saint Lucia has stories worth telling,” Anatole said. “And I believe Heartfall is one of them.”
Stay with Unitedpac St Lucia News for continuing coverage of breaking developments, cultural milestones, and the stories shaping Saint Lucia and the Caribbean.
