Play the Devil

Play the Devil is a fantastic yet captivating drama-thriller movie that was executed by the crisp directing hand of Maria Govan, and debuted in 2016. This narrative presents a novel tale set in the stunning landscape of Trinidad and Tobago and explores the country's cultural traditions with a riveting storyline. The movie boasts an attractive and talented cast which includes Petrice Jones, Gareth Jenkins, and Akil Nickolas, whose performances have been praised for their authenticity and depth.

Play the Devil portrays a gripping narrative that revolves around a young, gifted student named Gregory, played by Petrice Jones, who hails from a poor family living in the rural paramin mountain range of Trinidad. Gregory's life experiences, struggles, dreams, and desires are encapsulated in this moving drama. Although he comes from a less privileged background, he is highly talented academically, which creates enticing paths for his future.

Jones' character, Gregory, is shown immersing himself in his academic pursuits, trying to shed his disadvantaged past and present situation by aiming towards a brighter future. His intelligence and good performance at school have opened up opportunities for scholarships that can potentially transform his life's trajectory for the better. His aspiration is to study medicine, which in essence, is his passport away from the socio-economic hardship he endures daily. It also encapsulates his need to escape societal expectations, earning him a chance to make a meaningful difference in society.

However, his life seems to spiral out of his control when he encounters James played by Gareth Jenkins, a successful businessman who takes a particular interest in him. James, being a business tycoon, is a juxtaposition of wealth and power, starkly contrasting Gregory's impoverished background. This meeting unravels a series of events that resonate with sentiments of love, passion, manipulation, and danger.

Gregory, despite his rich intellectual potential, finds himself caught in the crossfire of societal pressures, personal desires, and moral dilemmas created by his association with James. As these young men's lives intersect, the movie skillfully navigates topics of power dynamics, social class disparities, and complex relationships. Gareth Jenkins' portrayal of the powerful, seductive yet manipulative James provides a perfect counterpoint to Jones' vulnerable yet ambitious Gregory.

The supporting cast, including Akil Nicholas, also contributes significantly to the film's narrative richness. Each character is meticulously crafted, adding depth to the unfolding drama.

The strategic use of Trinidad's biggest traditional festival, the carnivalesque 'Play the Devil', adds a cultural and symbolic layer to this film. The annual festival, known for its raucous celebration and symbolic 'playing the devil', sets a pertinent backdrop against which the deeply personal conflicts, secrets, and pressures stir to a boiling point in the lives of the characters.

The lush landscape of Trinidad and its vibrant culture serve as silent characters in the film themselves, resonating with the narrative's intense emotional undercurrents. The richness of the Trinidadian culture and the local folklore are represented in the film, delivering a vibrant yet intense backdrop that amplifies the unfolding drama.

Furthermore, the film's cinematography is breathtaking, capturing Trinidad's allure through a combination of intimate close-ups and expansive scenic shots that further the film's overarching emotional narrative. The play of light, color, and texture, combined with Trinidad's natural beauty, create stunning visuals that augment the film's storytelling prowess.

This provocative story of love, passion, and power dynamics is not only a social commentary on class, sexuality, and complex relationships but also an exploration of the human urge to break free from societal chains.

In a nutshell, Play the Devil is a skilfully directed and beautifully acted film that delves into the challenging realities of societal expectations and personal desires. All these elements are woven together in this unforgettable film, ensuring a riveting viewing experience.