3/24/2013

Introducing Grow Jamaica, The Movie

By Jill Faulkner


The movie Grow Jamaica analyses the effect of legalizing marijuana. This is an adaptation of the book authored by Campbell James under the same title. The areas covered in the debate include political, legal, economical, medical and social implications of such a move. Players in different sectors of the economy and social life in the country have contributed.

The documentary runs for sixty minutes taking both educational and entertaining perspectives. Contributions have been sort from doctors, politicians, economists as well as officers in the police force. Each has a unique tale to tell and their perspectives are fascinating. Their contributions expand the dialogue in legalization of marijuana.

Reverend Campbell Leeroy is one of the major and outstanding characters in this movie. He is a Christian with other fascinating attributes. Campbell is also an accomplished designer and artist. He has published several titles before the book that informed this documentary. It is clear that he is a multi talented individual.

The point made by Grow Jamaica is that ganja should be legalized. Jamaican people should be allowed to grow and trade in this crop. Leeroy is also a researcher on natural herbs and suggests that the benefits will spread in such sectors as tourism and food. This means that the economy of this country will be unique and competitive. His arguments are informed by research that shows positive impact of marijuana to the body, mind and soul.

Reverend Campbell is motivational in his speeches having worked as a teacher and counselor. His speeches are motivational, uplifting and confrontational. He has conducted research in natural herbs before arriving at such conclusions. The documentary has featured as part of the official selection for the BFI Film festivals in 2006 and Flash Point Film Festival in 2007.

Other characters featuring prominently in this movie include Delaware born Stephen Marley. He grew in Jamaica and started singing as a little kid. His exploits includes appearance at the Jamaica Music Festival in Montgomery. He is recognized for his role in Ziggy and the Melody Makers where he was a lead vocalist at eight years of age.

Grow Jamaica features Samuels Oliver, a seasoned actor and broadcaster. His exploits in this field have seen him feature in such shows as Oliver at Large, Pinocchio and Oliver and the Genie. The writer of Oliver at Large was Aston Cooke and the producer was Butler Calvin. These shows have mostly relied on his funny character.

Other characters have played significant roles in shaping the entire story and examining the ramifications of legalizing the trade in ganja. They include Dr Bragga whose profile is still being built within the documentary. Each has a unique yet significant role of determining the direction of trade in ganja. The cast forms a formidable team that evaluates the implications in a funny and educative manner.

Only time will tell of the impact of Grow Jamaica. It is interesting to watch the debate it has elicited and the possible direction this is going to take. This is a bold move with far reaching consequences at the local and global level. The issue is very sensitive and a lot of convincing is required to move people away the view that ganja is harmful.




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