Kingston, Jamaica:– The 2008 Flashpoint Film Festival was launched on Tuesday, May 20 at the Ashanti Restaurant in Hope Gardens, where trailers for a selection of films were screened and audiences were treated to an original music performance from characters in the film Better Mus Come.

Anticipation is high for the release of Director Joel Burke’s Candy Shop, a new teen comedy exploring sexuality and urban youth, and Director Storm’s Better Mus Come, an explosive period film based on true events, set against the backdrop of the political turmoil of 1970s Jamaica.

The 2008 Festival will occupy its new home in Port Royal, at the celebrated sites of Fort Charles and the Historic Naval Hospital. The Jamaica National Heritage Trust (JNHT) has thrown their full support behind the Festival and will also be launching the new Multimedia Centre at the Historic Naval Hospital. The Multimedia Centre has the capacity to screen video and multimedia projections and host seminars and workshops. During the day, short films can be viewed in the Centre for the Festival.

“Port Royal’s history is a major economic point for Jamaica and with the Flashpoint Film Festival there, it will draw people’s attention to the earthquake of 1692 and the novelty of the pirates and the role they play in Jamaica’s history,” commented Coleen Douglas, Communications Director, The Jamaica National Heritage Trust. “After the Festival, the Centre will be available for private screenings and conferences.”

Another feature added to the Festival is the public screening of films in the Port Royal public square. Mutabaruka has partnered with the festival to show films for free on the Mobile Movie Network. Well-loved films such as Sankofa, Rockers, One Love, Africa Unite, as well as others, will be on displayed for the Port Royal natives’ pleasure.

While no vendors will be located on the main festival grounds, Flashpoint has partnered with the local community to encourage festival patrons to support the Port Royal restaurants and vendors. The surrounding business owners will give festival goers an authentic Port Royal experience.

The Flashpoint Film Festival is scheduled to take place in Port Royal on Thursday, June 5 to Sunday, June 7. Visit www.flashpointfestival.com for additional information and regular updates.