Raw Materials
Narrative Short | Duration: 0:32:00 | Mandeville, Jamaica
Trailer:
Description: Raw Materials is a coming-of-age drama. Sixteen years old Malik, a fashion prodigy struggles to understand his sexuality because his homophobic community automatically labels him gay. Malik has but one friend Tara, as his daily life often includes abuse from his hyper masculine father Derrick, community way wards, and a pedophiliac Christian woman, Mrs. Johnson. With instructions from his father Malik visits the home of Mrs. Johnson who tries to seduce him. Malik storms out but before he could barely catch a breath, he’s beaten by the community gang leader. On reaching home, his father finishes what the gang leader started, and beats Malik for not only losing his money but for his interest in “female things.” Malik decides to throw fashion away for good, until Tara convinces him to finish her dress for her birthday party. Not only did she convince him to finish her dress, but she also takes his virginity. Malik’s life took a positive turn the day after Tara’s birthday party. The dress was a hit and Malik’s fashion is now high in demand by the locals. Malik eventually makes enough money to leave his father’s house. While packing, Tara attempts to kiss Malik but he refuses to return the emotions. Hurt disappointed, and anger, Tara storms out. As Malik makes his way out, his father is being thrown out by his landlord for long outstanding rent. A moment of forgiveness, as Malik hands all the money he made from sewing dresses to the landlord. An act that leads to a moment between father and son, just enough to make Malik smile, just enough for him to finally feel accepted. A new confident Malik walks out, ready to face whatever challenges are ahead and that he did, courageously, leading to a new phase of his life where community gangsters recognize and accept him for the talented fashion designer he is for now.
Filmmaker Bio:
Sosiessia Nixon-Kelly Sosiessia Nixon is a Jamaican screenwriter, director and film producer. She is currently the head of film and television at iKon Media & Films. Her works include the following: Short Films:
Sosiessia is also the creative mind behind many music videos as she serves as treatment writer on music video projects to include the likes of Shaggy, Buju Banton, Sean Paul, Spice, Conkarah, Dre Island just to name a few. |