November 26th 2011
“A Beautiful Exchange”- Local movie in the making! (Elijah Anotole shares it all)
Rae Anthony

The movie “A Beautiful Exchange” is currently in the making and it is one of the most talked about films locally. It is a local movie with international standards and the story line is so interesting that Saint Lucians are eagerly anticipating its release date, which is in the year 2012. Director of the Film Elijah Anatole, shared with the Yo! Magazine various details about the movie.

Elijah always knew that one day he would like to create a movie of his own. He was constantly writing his own plays and producing/directing stage plays. He decided that creating his own film, would be a huge leap in the right direction. He is originally from the community of Soufriere, but resides in Castries.

It is just the beginning for them, but already the film is attracting big names including the likes of Carl Gustave and Roy Toy. They have even gone as far as working with well known industries in the U.S. including “Summit Entertainment” who released the popular movie “Twilight” starring Robert Pattinson (“Edward”) and Kristen Stewart (“Bella”.) This project is a learning process for him, as it is his very first film; but from the looks of things, Elijah’s film is going to be a hit.

He stated that some of the benefits of making the film: includes making connections, networking, socializing and that he’s on set everyday trying to get a vision out of his mind and that they also gain the experience. The cons however include difficulty in getting sponsorship. A lot he says has to be done on his own. He stated that some companies are skeptical when it relates to giving sponsorship. They would like to see the finished product first, and if successful, they then would contribute towards the making of the next film.

The film has been shot in various parts of the Island including Soufriere, Gros Islet and also has helicopter and yacht scenes. (The entire movie will be shot in Saint Lucia.) It is not just a film, but it is a film that is aimed at advertising the beauty of the Island. Apart from being a director/film maker/ producer or what not, Elijah is also a medical student. He says that 10-20 years from now he either sees himself in his practice, or into the film making industry.

Working with the cast is a great experience though it can get frustrating at times, but he said it’s all about having patience. The cast members he said were chosen according to the characters they had in mind. The cast bonded immediately and are like the best of friends, as they have known each other for a period of time, Elijah stated. The lead actress of the movie is: Bebiana Mangal, the lead Actor: Kervin Lucien and Olympia Vitalis plays the role of the mother.

Surprisingly the movie was supposed to be named “Redemption.” Elijah said that exactly what happens to the father and daughter is something you hardly see, so it’s “A Beautiful Exchange.” The movie will be released in theatres in the U.S. and the Caribbean next year and it will be placed on DVD afterwards. The trailer for the movie will be released here but however the premier will be held in the U.S.

The movie he says “is going to be a very moving and inspiring film.” He said those who have read the screen play so far keeps asking for more and more and even the members of the cast are curious as to how the movie ends. The genre of the movie is: Family Drama.

Elijah Anotole, not only medical student but director of his own film has already created a name for himself and intends to contribute towards making our Island a better place. With his humble nature and intelligent mind, there is no doubt that this is just the beginning of a tough, yet beautiful journey for him.

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