"Next Payday," is a high-energy comedy starring budding stand-up comic Damien Gibson and Andrew Franklyn. This movie can be enjoyed by adult audiences or with parental discretion and it would be wise to note that obscene language is present throughout the film. The second installation in the PAYDAY trilogy though rated R tends to have veered away from the use of shock factor and focuses on developing a cohesive storyline. This time around we are offered a fascinating glimpse into the religious impact on Barbadian life. "Next Payday" is based on the perceived acceptance of the illegal drug trade, community life, and faith or lack thereof as part of its characters' lives. The film, written by Shakirah Bourne, makes fun of those realities while highlighting the need for individuals to think critically.
"Next Payday," which opened on Wednesday 15th at The Olympus Cinema, boasts of a beautiful soundtrack. Bajans In Motion Inc assembles a great group of songs, from hip-hop to sweet gospel classics featuring the creme DE la creme in the local music industry. The theme song "I'm Gonna Get Paid" sung by Marisa Lindsay and the ever talented Adaeze is one which if marketed well can catapult them into the American mainstream contemporary gospel arena. The song has catchy lyrics with an amazing hook and the production on the song is impeccable! The guest appearance by Toni Norville in the film was over-the top and forgettable which is quite ironic. She performed directly to the camera and appeared disconnected and unaware of her purpose. We all know that music is the driving force of action and in this film it was used to communicate a sense of place, as well as to get laughs. The Bajan term "wuk up" which is a dance locals do to calypso was highlighted through the hilarious chorus "Wuk-Up & get on bad! Pooch back for Jesus! Wuk-up & Get on bad!" during a church scene. There is always great debate on the influence of secular music in the church and how it can impact on the congregation but one gets the sense that in Barbadian society as long as something is done in Jesus name it is alright
.right?
"Next Payday" contains an impressive amount of energy considering that it's the second installment in the Payday Trilogy. Yet although most of the "Payday" team returns, the inclusion of Joyann Skeete, Hilana Layne, Carla Springer-Hunte, Patrick Foster, Jherad Alleyne and George Gill were welcome additions. Dyestra Browne who played Romie's father is NOT BACK instead he was replaced by George Gill. Gill has an intense presence on screen and his chemistry with Sandra Sealy (Romie's mom) was so natural it seems as though they were married in real life. It would be difficult to single out any weak actors because they all were exceptionally good; however, I am sure that viewers will have a great appreciation for the actors who played the characters "Flintstone, Patrice, Deborah and Brother Martin."
2014 was a win-win for Bajans In Motion Inc industry with both critically acclaimed movies ("PAYDAY" and "TWO SMART"). Though this company has self-funded all of their films so far they are blazing a path for others to follow. Barbados has gotten the message that there are a group of young professionals whose mission is to produce movies which capture Barbadian life and culture and many cultural supporters will be looking forward to many more movies from this company which tells our stories in the most candid way.
