Watch Jamaican Railways

Jamaican Railways is an insightful documentary exploring Jamaica's once-thriving railway system, tracing its fascinating history while examining the impact it has had on Jamaican culture past and present. Directed by Jérôme Guiot and produced by Barthélémy Fougea, the film was released in 2016 and has since received critical acclaim for its thorough exploration of an often overlooked aspect of Jamaica's complex history.

The film is structured around interviews with locals who have lived and worked along the railways, from former engineers and conductors to musicians and artists whose work has been influenced by the railway system. These interviews are framed within a larger narrative that delves into the history of the system, from its inception in the late 19th century to its eventual decline and abandonment in the 20th century.

Guiot's camera work is particularly noteworthy, with stunning shots of Jamaica's lush landscapes, bustling cities, and abandoned railway stations that are both visually captivating and informative. The film also makes great use of archival footage, providing historical context for the interviews and painting a vivid picture of what life was like during the heyday of the railways.

One of the most impressive aspects of Jamaican Railways is how it explores the social and cultural impact of the railways. The film shows how the system played a crucial role in Jamaica's economic development, transporting agricultural goods from rural areas to urban centers and facilitating trade with foreign countries. But it also shows how the railways served as a unifying force, connecting communities along the island and bringing people together regardless of race or class.

The film also provides an interesting glimpse into the role of music in Jamaica's railway culture, highlighting the way that traditional folk music and newer genres like ska and reggae were influenced by the rhythms and sounds of the railway. Countless musicians have written songs about the railways, often using them as a metaphor for the struggles of everyday life in Jamaica.

Despite its many successes, Jamaican Railways is also notable for how it tackles some of the more difficult aspects of Jamaica's railway history. The film acknowledges the challenges facing the system in the late 20th century, including a lack of investment and competition from other transportation methods like buses and trucks. And it also addresses the social and political tensions that have sometimes arisen around the railways - tensions that are often tied to Jamaica's colonial past and ongoing struggles with inequality.

Ultimately, Jamaican Railways is a beautifully crafted documentary that offers a fresh perspective on a fascinating aspect of Jamaica's history. It provides viewers with both a deep understanding of the railways' importance to the country's growth and development, as well as a thoughtful exploration of the cultural and social impact they have had. The film's commitment to exploring the complex realities of Jamaica's railway history, rather than simply presenting a romanticized or overly simplified version, is what truly sets it apart, making it a valuable contribution to both Jamaican and global film culture.