Emerald Movies remembers Hurricane Maria 5 years later with re-release of Uncivilized (with photos)

The film chronicles the experience of Category 5 Hurricane Maria through the eyes of Michael, who was living and filming in the forest when the hurricane struck.

“Even though we may want to forget Maria,” said the management of Emerald Movies, “the reality is that it’s a part of our history now, and this film documents that history beautifully. We’re looking forward to sharing Uncivilized again with the public, especially those who may have missed it the first time ’round.”

The film will premiere on Thursday, September 15 at 6:30 pm with a brief introduction followed by a moderated Q&A with Michael Lees. The film will also show on Friday at 9 pm, Saturday 6:30 pm, and Sunday 6:30 pm and 9 pm.

“We were really happy when Emerald Movies approached us to play again,” said Michael. “I remember the first time we screened here, and it was a  really special moment being able to share the film with people who had also experienced Maria. I’m looking forward to having that moment again, but this time with a little more distance from that disaster. It will be interesting to see how people will react now – hopefully, it will be cathartic.”

The film first played at Emerald Movies in 2019 and went on to play at festivals in the Caribbean, US, and Europe, winning awards at the Barbados Independent Film Festival, and the African Diaspora Cinema Festival in Italy. It has been widely praised, including positive words from Machel Montano and NY Times bestselling author John Perkins.

“Great work!” said Machel. “Really enjoyed watching and loved the realisation… Thank you for sharing such a profound experience with us all… Blessings.”

Tickets will be available online at emeraldmovies.com and at the Emerald Movies box office.