284 Excellence Film Festival

The 284 Excellence Film Competition was launched in 2021 with a simple but powerful mission: to discover, showcase, and celebrate the creativity and talent of filmmakers across the British Virgin Islands. What started as a grassroots competition quickly grew into a platform that empowered storytellers to bring their visions to life, no matter their experience level or background.

Each year, the competition challenged participants to create short films across a variety of genres—drama, horror, sci-fi, romance, documentary, music videos, and more. It provided a stage not only for emerging filmmakers but also for seasoned creatives looking to push the boundaries of their craft. Through workshops, mentorships, screenings, and awards, the 284 Excellence Film Competition nurtured local talent, inspired new artistic voices, and strengthened the growing film community in the Virgin Islands.

Over the years, the competition has evolved in size, scope, and ambition. Thanks to the hard work of participants, the support of the community, and the vision of its organisers, 284 Excellence became more than a competition—it became a movement. It encouraged bold storytelling, celebrated cultural identity, and connected Virgin Islands filmmakers to broader regional and international audiences.

Now, as the 284 Excellence Film Competition transitions into the 284 Excellence Film Festival, its original spirit lives on—only bigger, bolder, and with even more opportunities for creativity, collaboration, and excellence. This next chapter marks a celebration not just of films, but of the voices, dreams, and future of filmmaking in the Virgin Islands and beyond.

🎬 2023 Winners

• Best Film (Rhodni A. Skelton Award): Three Little Wishes by Emmanuel “Efex” Phillips

• Fan Favourite: Three Little Wishes by Emmanuel “Efex” Phillips

• Best Actor: Ashawn-Taedo Phillips (Three Little Wishes)

• Best Actress: Mayte’ah Phillips (Three Little Wishes)

• Best Directing & Soundtrack: Emmanuel Phillips (Three Little Wishes)

• Best Editing, Screenplay & Short Documentary: Camroy Peters (Crack of Dawn)

• Neil Blyden Memorial Award for Cinematography: Naudia Turnbull (Surreal)

• Debbie Wilmot Best Pick: Naudia Turnbull (Surreal)​

The 2023 competition showcased a diverse range of genres and was well attended by the community.