The Bahamas International Film Festival (BIFF) has announced a major partnership with the historic John Watling's Distillery, establishing the iconic property as a premier venue for screenings, industry panels, and celebratory events during the upcoming festival. The collaboration will transform the Distillery into a vibrant hub for filmmakers, industry professionals, and film enthusiasts from Sunday, December 7, 2025, through Wednesday, December 10, 2025.

Organizers said the festival lineup at John Watling’s Distillery promises a dynamic blend of cinema and culture. The festivities kick off on Sunday, December 7th, 11:00am with a morning Happy Hour featuring JOHN WATLING’S Bahamian Coffee with Louis & Steen’s New Orleans Coffeehouse. 

“We are very pleased to announce the partnership with the landmark historic property now known as John Watling’s Distillery,” said BIFF founder Leslie Vanderpool. “It is the perfect setting for the quality films and related activities showcasing extraordinary talent in an extraordinary environment.”

According to Vanderpool, the happy hour kick-off leads into indoor screenings starting at noon in the John Watling’s Distillery Rum Academy which, she said, “will be transformed into a boutique cinema with spectacular outdoor screenings that culminate in an evening feature. The  day will conclude with a lively after party, featuring live music from Patrice Murrell.”

Additionally, the venue will host two crucial industry panel: a multi-day Acting Workshop featuring expert SJ Alloco St. Germain, and a dedicated Filmmaking and Producing panel of attending Hollywood producers.

“We are pleased that John Watling’s was chosen to host the opening and closing days of the 2025 Bahamas International Film Festival,” said Pepin Argamasilla, Managing Partner. “The historic charm of the Buena Vista Estate elevates each cultural experience into a moment of pure magic, forever etched in the memories of both locals and visitors.” 

The cinematic journey at the Distillery features an impressive slate of local and international films. Film highlights include three distinct Short Film Blocks—REEL REVEALS, WINDING ROADS, and THE JOLT—showcasing diverse themes and genres. 

Feature film screenings will include KEEP QUIET (directed by Vincent Grashaw), THE DUTCHMAN (directed by Andre Gaines), THE QUEENS JEWELS (Josh Friedman), WHERE WE COME FROM (directed by Marc Brummund), and NOBODY WANT TO BE HERE, NOBODY WANTS TO LEAVE (directed by Cash Anderson). All films will be accompanied by directors or actors. 

The weekend’s signature reception on Sunday will gather attendees in the South Courtyard of John Watling’s Distillery, featuring Tasty Patties and Tipsy Scoop. 

The collaboration is set to elevate the festival experience, celebrating the art of film against the backdrop of one of Nassau’s most historic and beautiful landmarks. For more information on how to attend visit the BIFF website at www.bintlfilmfest.com

ABOUT THE BAHAMAS INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL (BIFF) 

The Bahamas International Film Festival is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing the local Bahamian and international film community with an outlet to express their talents and tell their stories. BIFF strives to encourage cross-cultural understanding and artistic appreciation in The Bahamas and around the world.

ABOUT JOHN WATLING’S DISTILLERY

John Watling’s Distillery welcomes guests to the historic Buena Vista Estate—founded in 1789 and overlooking Nassau Harbour—where more than 28 Bahamian hand-craft JOHN WATLING’S award-winning rums. Situated on Delancy Street and within easy walking distance of Downtown Nassau, the Estate offers complimentary tours that highlight a museum-style production experience, curated shopping, and signature all-natural cocktails at the Tavern. Visitors may also purchase a Mixology and Rum Tasting Experience at the We B Learnin’ Rum Academy. Open seven days a week from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (except national holidays).

The Bahamas International Film Festival (BIFF) has announced a major partnership with the historic John Watling's Distillery, establishing the iconic property as a premier venue for screenings, industry panels, and celebratory events during the upcoming festival. The collaboration will transform the Distillery into a vibrant hub for filmmakers, industry professionals, and film enthusiasts from Sunday, December 7, 2025, through Wednesday, December 10, 2025. Organizers said the festival lineup at John Watling’s Distillery promises a dynamic blend of cinema and culture. The festivities kick off on Sunday, December 7th, 11:00am with a morning Happy Hour featuring JOHN WATLING’S Bahamian Coffee with Louis & Steen’s New Orleans Coffeehouse.  “We are very pleased to announce the partnership with the landmark historic property now known as John Watling’s Distillery,” said BIFF founder Leslie Vanderpool. “It is the perfect setting for the quality films and related activities showcasing extraordinary talent in an extraordinary environment.” According to Vanderpool, the happy hour kick-off leads into indoor screenings starting at noon in the John Watling’s Distillery Rum Academy which, she said, “will be transformed into a boutique cinema with spectacular outdoor screenings that culminate in an evening feature. The  day will conclude with a lively after party, featuring live music from Patrice Murrell.” Additionally, the venue will host two crucial industry panel: a multi-day Acting Workshop featuring expert SJ Alloco St. Germain, and a dedicated Filmmaking and Producing panel of attending Hollywood producers. “We are pleased that John Watling’s was chosen to host the opening and closing days of the 2025 Bahamas International Film Festival,” said Pepin Argamasilla, Managing Partner. “The historic charm of the Buena Vista Estate elevates each cultural experience into a moment of pure magic, forever etched in the memories of both locals and visitors.”  The cinematic journey at the Distillery features an impressive slate of local and international films. Film highlights include three distinct Short Film Blocks—REEL REVEALS, WINDING ROADS, and THE JOLT—showcasing diverse themes and genres.  Feature film screenings will include KEEP QUIET (directed by Vincent Grashaw), THE DUTCHMAN (directed by Andre Gaines), THE QUEENS JEWELS (Josh Friedman), WHERE WE COME FROM (directed by Marc Brummund), and NOBODY WANT TO BE HERE, NOBODY WANTS TO LEAVE (directed by Cash Anderson). All films will be accompanied by directors or actors.  The weekend’s signature reception on Sunday will gather attendees in the South Courtyard of John Watling’s Distillery, featuring Tasty Patties and Tipsy Scoop.  The collaboration is set to elevate the festival experience, celebrating the art of film against the backdrop of one of Nassau’s most historic and beautiful landmarks. For more information on how to attend visit the BIFF website at www.bintlfilmfest.com ABOUT THE BAHAMAS INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL (BIFF)  The Bahamas International Film Festival is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing the local Bahamian and international film community with an outlet to express their talents and tell their stories. BIFF strives to encourage cross-cultural understanding and artistic appreciation in The Bahamas and around the world. ABOUT JOHN WATLING’S DISTILLERY John Watling’s Distillery welcomes guests to the historic Buena Vista Estate—founded in 1789 and overlooking Nassau Harbour—where more than 28 Bahamian hand-craft JOHN WATLING’S award-winning rums. Situated on Delancy Street and within easy walking distance of Downtown Nassau, the Estate offers complimentary tours that highlight a museum-style production experience, curated shopping, and signature all-natural cocktails at the Tavern. Visitors may also purchase a Mixology and Rum Tasting Experience at the We B Learnin’ Rum Academy. Open seven days a week from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (except national holidays).

Coca-Cola in partnership with Heineken rolled out the red carpet for nearly 200 invited guests for an early screening of Marvel’s newest blockbuster Deadpool and Wolverine.

This summer, Coca-Cola and Disney joined forces again in a global partnership. The Hero’s Collaboration, which focuses on celebrating the consumer, who are the superheroes of real-life. One of partnership’s main highlights is the inclusion of over 30 iconic Marvel superhero characters on Coca-Cola and Coca-Cola No Sugar cans and bottles for a limited time only.

To commemorate this momentous occasion, Coca-Cola was inspired to host a movie premiere with partner, Fusion Superplex to celebrate the consumer and Marvel’s latest film. Heineken/Commonwealth Brewery Limited (CBL) jumped at the idea of hosting a joint movie premiere; an excellent opportunity for two giants in the beverage industry to collaborate.

“The event underscored the message that even the most unpredictable partnerships can work together to create real magic. Both brands aimed to spotlight their global partnership with Marvel while also

celebrating their consumers and we all nailed it perfectly.” Jonathan Thronebury, Marketing Director of Caribbean Bottling Company (CBC), local producers of Coca-Cola and Dasani products, said.

Echoing similar sentiments as Thronebury, Martysta Turnquest-Bastian, Commonwealth Brewery Limited CMI & Media Coordinator spoke on the reasoning for this premiere.

“...This premiere would be an opportunity to create unique brand experiences whilst mirroring the Deadpool and Wolverine story with our unlikely partnership.” Turnquest-Bastian said.

All VIP seats at Fusion were reserved for this event. Guests included clients, lucky winners, influencers, and local media partners.

Both brands succeeded in transforming Fusion into a Coca-Cola, Heineken and Marvel utopia. No expense was spared in creating the ambiance for the evening. From intentionally curated branding to the décor, delicious hors d'oeuvres, superhero models, and swag bags it was a Coca-Cola and Heineken extravaganza, with Marvel at the center.

“The exclusivity and synchronized branding made it distinctly feel like a Coca-Cola and Heineken event. Which brought the glamour of a Hollywood movie premiere to The Bahamas.” Thronebury expressed.

“We wanted to immerse our audience in the world of Heineken and Coca-Cola whilst really paying homage to the movie's main characters. Our hope was to create an experience that was refreshing on all fronts, with amazing beverages but also quirky and unique touches." Turnquest Bastian said.

While attendees would agree that the main attraction of the night was submerging themselves in the Deadpool and Wolverine universe.

When asked what they are most proud of Thronebury and Turnquest-Bastian revealed what their highlight was.

“Showcasing the strengths of both brands and celebrating our consumers, who are our everyday superheroes. For us, that was the true highlight.” Thronebury said.

" Being able to work alongside Coca-Cola to create an amazing consumer experience. The comradery that was showcased as well as the attention to detail that went into this event was phenomenal.” Turnquest-Bastian concluded.

This Summer Coca-Cola is not turning off the heat. With lots of exciting promotions and prizes for consumers to win, there is something for everyone. Enter-To-Win a trip for four to New York or upgrade your life with Coca-Cola at Wendy’s to name a few. To stay up to date with all things Coca-Cola, visit the website at www.cbcbahamas today.

Coca-Cola in partnership with Heineken rolled out the red carpet for nearly 200 invited guests for an early screening of Marvel’s newest blockbuster Deadpool and Wolverine. This summer, Coca-Cola and Disney joined forces again in a global partnership. The Hero’s Collaboration, which focuses on celebrating the consumer, who are the superheroes of real-life. One of partnership’s main highlights is the inclusion of over 30 iconic Marvel superhero characters on Coca-Cola and Coca-Cola No Sugar cans and bottles for a limited time only. To commemorate this momentous occasion, Coca-Cola was inspired to host a movie premiere with partner, Fusion Superplex to celebrate the consumer and Marvel’s latest film. Heineken/Commonwealth Brewery Limited (CBL) jumped at the idea of hosting a joint movie premiere; an excellent opportunity for two giants in the beverage industry to collaborate. “The event underscored the message that even the most unpredictable partnerships can work together to create real magic. Both brands aimed to spotlight their global partnership with Marvel while also celebrating their consumers and we all nailed it perfectly.” Jonathan Thronebury, Marketing Director of Caribbean Bottling Company (CBC), local producers of Coca-Cola and Dasani products, said. Echoing similar sentiments as Thronebury, Martysta Turnquest-Bastian, Commonwealth Brewery Limited CMI & Media Coordinator spoke on the reasoning for this premiere. “...This premiere would be an opportunity to create unique brand experiences whilst mirroring the Deadpool and Wolverine story with our unlikely partnership.” Turnquest-Bastian said. All VIP seats at Fusion were reserved for this event. Guests included clients, lucky winners, influencers, and local media partners. Both brands succeeded in transforming Fusion into a Coca-Cola, Heineken and Marvel utopia. No expense was spared in creating the ambiance for the evening. From intentionally curated branding to the décor, delicious hors d'oeuvres, superhero models, and swag bags it was a Coca-Cola and Heineken extravaganza, with Marvel at the center. “The exclusivity and synchronized branding made it distinctly feel like a Coca-Cola and Heineken event. Which brought the glamour of a Hollywood movie premiere to The Bahamas.” Thronebury expressed. “We wanted to immerse our audience in the world of Heineken and Coca-Cola whilst really paying homage to the movie's main characters. Our hope was to create an experience that was refreshing on all fronts, with amazing beverages but also quirky and unique touches." Turnquest Bastian said. While attendees would agree that the main attraction of the night was submerging themselves in the Deadpool and Wolverine universe. When asked what they are most proud of Thronebury and Turnquest-Bastian revealed what their highlight was. “Showcasing the strengths of both brands and celebrating our consumers, who are our everyday superheroes. For us, that was the true highlight.” Thronebury said. " Being able to work alongside Coca-Cola to create an amazing consumer experience. The comradery that was showcased as well as the attention to detail that went into this event was phenomenal.” Turnquest-Bastian concluded. This Summer Coca-Cola is not turning off the heat. With lots of exciting promotions and prizes for consumers to win, there is something for everyone. Enter-To-Win a trip for four to New York or upgrade your life with Coca-Cola at Wendy’s to name a few. To stay up to date with all things Coca-Cola, visit the website at www.cbcbahamas today.

Cast: Denzel Washington, Dakota Fanning, Eugenio Mastrandrea, Andrea Scarduzio

Genre: Action/ Crime

Where to watch: In theaters

Dwight's Rating: ***

Denzel Washington is back in "The Equalizer 3". But that poses a big question: If Denzel is "The Equalizer", then who is Queen Latifah?

That's right! Since Washington starred in the first film version back in 2014 - based loosely on the eponymous CBS television drama from the 1980s - and following the sequel in 2018, we got a remake of the CBS television drama starring the popular rapper. That show premiered in 2021, and is expected to go into its fourth season as soon as the writers' and actors' strikes in Hollywood come to an end.

How is this possible? Washington's Equalizer (just like Edward Woodward's in the original series) is Robert McCall. Latifah's Equalizer is Robyn McCall. So, are they related? Father and daughter? Cousins? Is this a family business?

Washington's McCall isn't quite a family man. But he certainly carries on like a comic book superhero - as in, a brutal killing machine! So, as exploring the "multiverse" is the in-thing with superhero flicks right now, perhaps what we're witnessing is the two McCalls living in some sort of parallel universe, à la Spider-Man?

For now, it seems that mystery will likely remain unsolved, like most of those surrounding the benevolent mercenary Robert McCall.

For this third cinematic time around, McCall has given up his life as a government assassin and finds solace in serving justice on behalf of the oppressed. Now living in Southern Italy, he soon discovers his new friends are under the control of local crime bosses. As events turn deadly, McCall becomes their protector by taking on the mafia.

Looking back at my reviews for the previous films, it appears I was not exactly a fan of the ridiculous original - except for Washington, who was exceptional. In the "two-star" review, I noted: "While there have been many questionable movies with performances so great you'd still recommend them. ... Washington's performance, as stellar as it is, may not be enough for 'The Equalizer'."

I found the follow-up slightly more enjoyable, stating the sequel "tries much harder to equally match (Washington's) performance", largely succeeding in a "two-and-a-half star" effort.

For this third installment, it's earned "three-stars". (At this rate, by "The Equalizer 5", the film might actually be Oscar-worthy!). But all three have had the same director, Antoine Fuqua - who directed Washington to an Oscar in "Training Day", and the same writer, Richard Wenk.

Mobster-types have always figured prominently in this series. While they were largely Russian in the previous two, with the Italian setting here, the vibe is "The Equalizer" meets "The Godfather" meets "Under the Tuscan Sun".

Yes, when the blood isn't flowing, we get tourism travel video quality views of the most picturesque coastal Italian town imaginable. It is stunning!

Washington and Dakota Fanning, who plays a CIA agent, are reunited nearly 20 years after 2004's "Man on Fire". Their playful banter is the best part of the movie, followed by Washington and his usual cooler-than-cool portrayal of this character.

Otherwise, the storyline is extremely straightforward, and goes exactly the way you'd expect. Yet, it is incredibly entertaining and satisfying. But there are no surprises. However, people who like these movies are only looking to be surprised by how violently the characters are killed.

And as expected, "The Equalizer 3" is exceptionally violent! Like, cover-your-eyes violent. Shockingly, it's probably less violent than the two previous outings, as the violence comes in spurts, as opposed to steady streams.

Never fear though, if witnessing human slaughter is your thing, there's enough violence to satiate all but most voracious psychopaths or serial killers, at least through Christmas.

And, as usual, every imaginable apparatus known to mankind is used to obliterate the "bad guys". And whether it's Robert or Robyn doing the equalizing, that's one thing you can count on with "The Equalizer".

• Dwight Strachan is the host/producer of "Morning Blend" on Guardian Radio and station manager. He is a television producer and writer, and an avid TV history and film buff. Email dwight@nasguard.com and follow him on twitter @morningblend969.

"Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse" (Rated B)

Cast: Shameik Moore, Hailee Steinfeld, Brian Tyree Henry, Oscar Isaac, Lauren Vélez, Jason Schwartzman

Genre: Action/Adventure

Where to watch: In theaters

Dwight's Rating:

Thanks to Disney and Marvel, and especially rival DC, these days plenty people are very likely automatically prepared for disappointment - or at least lackluster experiences - when most new comic book-based superhero movies are released.

The frequency and repetition and recycling of themes and characters seemingly every single month of late have created some fatigue, to put it mildly. Yes, of course there are exceptions. But even with those, their inevitable sequels just water down whatever freshness there'd been before.

However, something special is happening over at Sony Animation/ Columbia Pictures. Holding on desperately to the couple of Marvel titles Disney hasn't been able to completely snatch up, their Spider-Man films do appear to at least be trying.

The flicks starring their current webslinger Tom Holland have been pretty decent, even though the last two pale greatly in comparison to his enthusiastic debut.

But even more shocking was 2018's animated "Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse", one of the best and most innovative movies of that year.

The new sequel (as expected, of course) to that picture, "Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse", builds on that strong foundation. And in many ways improves on it.

After reuniting with Gwen Stacy (Hailee Steinfeld), Brooklyn's full-time, friendly neighborhood Spider-Man (Shameik Moore) is catapulted across the Multiverse, where he encounters a team of Spider-People charged with protecting its very existence. However, when the heroes clash on how to handle a new threat, Miles finds himself pitted against the other Spiders. He must soon redefine what it means to be a hero so he can save the people he loves most.

This is not your typical comic book-based, superhero storyline. It's far deeper and smarter and more thoughtful than it needed to be. The word "ambitious" is being thrown about a lot, and for good reason. It is a mental workout, like Wordle or Sudoku. And it's fun!

It's also a visual feast. I raved about the animation in "Into the Spider-Verse". But things have been gloriously kicked up several notches here. Almost every different "Spider-Verse" appears to be animated differently (the official count is six styles). And they come together masterfully.

"Across the Spider-Verse" is not entirely perfect, though. Those scenes in which all the Spider-people assemble seem as long as it would take to get from one end of the universe to the other. It's not boring, but it's just endless. Somebody wanted to showcase the skills of these filmmakers, but it might a little too much of a good thing.

It also contributes to the shocking two hours and 20-minutes run time!

For an animated movie! That makes this the longest animated film in the history of the United States. Only Japan (besides one-offs from Russia and Hungary) regularly produces animated flicks longer than this.

Thankfully, for the most part, most of that time is spent entrancing moviegoers with the stunning visuals and wonderful dialogue from the fantastic voice cast.

Here's another picture that can show Vin Diesel's Dominic Toretto and the "Fast & Furious" gang how genuine families actually interact in authentic and sincere scenarios. And while it's always hinted, rarely before do we see the person who is the "Spider-Man" (or "Spider-Woman") really deal with such in-your-face teenage angst and insecurities.

"Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse", and this whole animated franchise, are functioning on a much higher plane than necessary, especially as so many will dismiss these solely because they are animated. For the fans and the open-minded, this will be an experience you won't soon forget.

But to those who will miss out, but will plop themselves down to waste two-plus hours on the next live-action mess from Marvel and DC, just because, well, bring your disappointment pillows.

"The Little Mermaid" (Rated B)

Cast: Halle Bailey, Jonah Hauer-King, Melissa McCarthy, Daveed Diggs, Javier Bardem, Awkwafina

Genre: Fantasy/Musical

Where to watch: In theaters

Dwight's Rating:

If you've never seen the animated 1989 "The Little Mermaid", which is credited with igniting off the so-called "Disney Renaissance", which revived the struggling animation arm of Walt Disney Pictures? Well, you'll like (maybe even really like) this new live-action "The Little Mermaid".

If you've seen the animated "The Little Mermaid", and the long line of recent live-action versions of the animated films that followed that trailblazing 1989 picture (and some like "Cinderella" from well before that era too), well ... you probably won't hate the new live-action version.

You may even like it. I liked it. But I certainly didn't love it!

This image released by Disney shows Jonah Hauer-King as Prince Eric, left, and Halle Bailey as Ariel in "The Little Mermaid."

Don't get me wrong, I didn't love the animated one either. I was a kid when that came out, and even then, throwing your life away for "love" seemed a bit weird. But I do understand why people are so fond of it.

Many of the reasons people are fond of it are exactly why it may be hard for many to love this updated "The Little Mermaid". And just like with many of the previous live-action reboots (the exceptions being "Aladdin" and "The Jungle Book"), this is largely lifeless, soulless, almost joy-less, and too afraid to step out of the shadow and become something new and unique.

As expected, as the youngest of the daughters of King Triton (Javier Bardem), Ariel (Halle Bailey) is a beautiful and spirited young mermaid with a thirst for adventure. Longing to find out more about the world beyond the sea, Ariel visits the surface and falls for the dashing Prince Eric (Jonah Hauer-King). Following her heart, she makes a deal with the evil sea witch, Ursula (Melissa McCarthy), to experience life on land.

The cast does a fine job. Bailey and Hauer-King are cute. Tony-Award winner Daveed Diggs as Sebastian the crab, with his mashup of various West Indian accents, is actually a joy to listen to. And McCarthy can do no wrong, ever!

Sure, this is meant to appeal to a lot of youthful moviegoers. And one can understand avoiding taking the story in perhaps a darker direction. But especially with the talents of someone as incredibly funny as McCarthy, why not amp up the humor? It feels like that's what's missing and most sorely needed - a funnier, zanier, more whimsical tale (or should that be tail?).

"The Little Mermaid" looks good and sounds good, but the taste is all artificial vanilla. After all the lengthy, protracted hype, I wasn't quite expecting something this washed up.

• Dwight Strachan is the host/producer of "Morning Blend" on Guardian Radio and station manager. He is a television producer and writer, and an avid TV history and film buff. Email dwight@nasguard.com and follow him on twitter @morningblend969.