‘One Year Off’ – a comedy feature finds Nevis safe heaven for filming during COVID-19

“One Year Off,” a comedy feature film, will be shot on the Island of Nevis, a safe heaven for filming during the coronavirus pandemic, according to producer Philippe Martinez, who is in the process of casting for the ensemble comedy.

Matinez and Stewart Thomas wrote the film that will be directed by Brad Watson, from an original idea by Martinez, and will be the first film announced under a two-picture production that MSR Media has negotiated with the Nevis Island Administration (NIA).

According to the release, stringent COVID-19 guidelines have helped Nevis become a COVID safe zone. A cast and crew of about 50 people have started to arrive in Nevis amid strict protective measures.

Premier of Nevis, Mark Brantley said, “Nevis is uniquely placed to develop a world class film industry. My government is agile, responsive and aggressively seeking to partner with filmmakers to develop this industry on Nevis.”

“The island is warm and welcoming with stunning mountains and beaches and a people who epitomize hospitality. The Caribbean is one of the most beautiful places in the world and Nevis is one of the most beautiful places in the Caribbean.

“In a world now beset with the COVID-19 pandemic, Nevis continues to be one of the safest places in the world with very few cases, no community spread and to date no COVID related deaths.”

Martinez stated, “We are extremely proud to announce this partnership with the government of Nevis. Premier Mark Brantley’s vision to develop the film industry is clear and exciting. During our negotiations we have found his team wonderfully efficient and reliable partners. We plan to shoot four films in the Caribbean in 2021 and are overjoyed to kick off with “One Year Off” on Nevis. All of us at MSR Media hope to contribute to the development of the entertainment industry that will benefit the people of Nevis while offering a safe place for film productions.”

“We certainly look forward to the development of a robust film industry and welcome film producers to consider our island for their next film venture.”

Speaking of the partnership, Jadine Yarde, CEO of the Nevis Tourism Authority said: “We are delighted to be working with MSR Media to bring two very exciting movie productions to fruition and we are thrilled that the Producer and his team have chosen to collaborate with Nevis.

“The promotion of this island, as a desirable film location, is an important strategic objective for the Nevis Tourism Authority, as we recognize the important synergies generated between successful tourism and film industries. Nevis offers a stunning variety of scenic and unique locations, and to have this highly anticipated production created here will showcase the wonderful natural assets of this beautiful island.”

The release said, principal photography for the British production is set to begin on Feb. 25.

In this fun comedy, Claire’s wine-fueled post-breakup pity-party in London is crashed by her old friend James who has inherited a gorgeous house and beach club on the island of Nevis. James wants her and the old crew to join him for a week. In love with the island they decide to stay in paradise for “One Year Off.” Suddenly, paradise life becomes a comical disaster. Can magical Nevis transform them and bring back love under the sun?

Under the far-reaching production deal, the Nevis government is offering access to multiple locations across the island and hotel support for visiting cast members. In turn, MSR Media has announced the creation of an education program to train local people in a variety of on-set roles in an effort to boost the island’s production infrastructure. A plan to create an acting academy on the island is also underway.

“This collaboration between the Island of Nevis and MSR Media was made possible thanks to the support of Colin Dore, permanent secretary, Ministry of Finance of Nevis who was vital in arranging for incentives and expediting work permits; Jadine Yarde, chief executive officer of Nevis Tourism Authority who coordinated arrangements with the COVID-19 Task Force, negotiated preferential rates for accommodation, and facilitated introductions to local service providers; and the Invisible Hand Foundation, which introduced Nevis to MSR Media as the new hub for the entertainment industry and facilitated introduction to respective government agencies that made this deal possible,” added Martinez.

Alongside Philippe Martinez the film is produced with Alan Latham from Highfield Grange Studios. The film’s financial partner is Kirsty Bell from Goldfinch Entertainment, who serves as executive producer alongside Lee Beasley and Karinne Behr from MSR Media.

MSR Media International, an MSR Media company, a boutique film and television production company based in York, England lead by Martinez and Managing Director, Lee Beasley is handling worldwide rights for the film.

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