MIAMI – Miami Carnival is going to the movies this year. Well, sort of.
The annual event, which runs from October 2-11 in South Florida, will host the premiere of Squatta, an urban drama directed by American James Williams. That is scheduled to take place on October 8 at a location to be announced.
John G. Beckford, a senior director of Miami Carnival, told South Florida Caribbean News that the movie launch is in line with ‘The Evolution’, its theme for 2026.
“One of the things we wanted to do was find ways to evolve and expand the cultural offerings during the Miami Carnival season. This world premiere of “Squatta” as part of Miami Carnival week makes great cultural sense,” he said.
“Squatta” wrapped production in Kingston, Jamaica in June. Williams and his crew spent 10 days there filming scenes with local actors including Christopher Daley, Stokley Brown and Kadeem Wilson.
Described by Williams as a “thriller/horror flick”, “Squatta” also stars American rapper Spliff Star.
Beckford has been with Miami Carnival since it started over 40 years ago. He said its traditional events are on the calendar this year, including Junior Carnival, Pan Jamboree and the closing-day parade.
Miami Carnival will also sponsor the J’ouvert Exhibition at the Broward County Main Library which opens on October 2 and closes in December.
Arguably the most popular West Indian live event in South Florida, Miami Carnival showcases the diverse cultures of the islands. It attracts thousands of fans to the various parties.
