Thursday, June 26, 2025
Nevis just made history. Over the weekend, the picturesque Caribbean island officially launched the Nevis Film Commission—a bold move positioning itself at the center of a growing film and creative tourism movement. The debut marks a milestone in the island’s transformation into a prime destination for international film and television production.
With its soft green hills, untouched coastlines, and rich historical ties, Nevis has long held cinematic potential. Now, with an official commission in place, the island is ready to compete on a global scale. The event, hosted at the Nevis Performing Arts Center (NEPAC) on June 22, brought together key local leaders, special guests, and film industry stakeholders to celebrate the beginning of this cultural evolution.
The launch wasn’t just ceremonial. It was strategic.
As the Caribbean faces the challenge of diversifying tourism and recovering from economic shocks, Nevis is seizing the opportunity to tap into the film industry’s power to stimulate local economies. With structured support, incentives, and infrastructure now on the table, the island has laid a foundation for meaningful growth in both film production and community development.
A New Path for Creative Tourism
This launch represents more than a new government initiative. It signals a shift in Nevis’ tourism strategy—one that blends culture, media, and economic opportunity.
The Nevis Film Commission will serve as a hub for incoming productions. It will streamline logistics, offer on-island support, and guide filmmakers through every phase from scouting to post-production. This formal support transforms Nevis into an accessible and attractive location for global studios and independent creators alike.
This strategy is already bearing fruit. Nevis has recently been the setting for several notable productions, including A Week in Paradise and Christmas in the Caribbean, both of which were distributed internationally. These films showcase not only the island’s beauty but also its growing infrastructure and community readiness for more ambitious projects.
Building Economic Resilience Through Film
The economic logic behind the Film Commission is clear. Each film produced on the island brings in crews, equipment, and international exposure. But more importantly, it creates jobs, transfers skills, and injects money into local businesses.
From caterers and transport services to location scouts and set builders, filmmaking offers a ripple effect that spreads opportunity across sectors. For a small island like Nevis, this type of targeted economic stimulation can be game-changing.
As global film production continues to seek new, affordable, and visually stunning locations, the Caribbean is emerging as a hotspot. Nevis, with its English-speaking workforce, established air links, and low barriers to entry, has positioned itself as a ready-made solution for producers looking to shoot in paradise without the complexity.
Community and Global Spotlight Collide
The Film Commission launch event proved just how seriously Nevis is taking this moment.
Guests were welcomed to a cocktail reception followed by a special screening of the award-winning documentary Hamilton’s America, which tells the story of Alexander Hamilton, who was born on the island. The event featured a live virtual Q&A with director Alex Horwitz, who reflected on the missed opportunity to film in Nevis years earlier due to the Zika virus outbreak. That absence made this return—even if virtual—all the more significant.
Also in attendance were notable figures from both the public and private sectors, highlighting how the Film Commission enjoys cross-sectoral support. Prizes, including hotel stays and air travel packages, added a festive flair, but the night remained focused on the long-term vision.
A Future Built on Stories
At the heart of this initiative is storytelling.
Nevis has stories to tell—of colonial legacy, of resistance, of nature and rebirth. And now, the infrastructure is in place to share those stories with the world. Whether through historical drama, adventure film, or romantic comedy, the island has the range to support almost any genre.
For creators, it’s an invitation to collaborate. For Nevisians, it’s a promise of visibility, pride, and opportunity.
A Model for Other Islands?
Nevis’ approach could offer a replicable model for other small island developing states (SIDS) looking to boost resilience and diversify tourism. Rather than relying solely on traditional sun-and-sand offerings, film tourism offers a year-round, recession-resistant stream of income.
Moreover, the cultural export potential can significantly boost brand visibility on the world stage. As audiences view Nevis on screen, interest in travel, investment, and partnerships is likely to follow.
What Comes Next
With the commission now active, Nevis is preparing for the next phase. Plans are underway to develop more filming infrastructure, formalize training programs for local crew members, and promote the island in global film markets.
The stage is set. The spotlight is on. And the world is watching.
As film professionals and travelers alike seek new destinations with purpose and soul, Nevis is stepping confidently into the frame.
