Kesi Asher, Staff Reporter
Mrs. Gloria Eugene Minto, author of 'Gloria to Gloriana'. - CONTRIBUTED
IT IS a 'rags to riches' tale that has now been brought to film. Glory to Gloriana, one of the latest production's from our local film industry is expected to hit the screen early next year.
The film, produced by Mediamix Limited, is the true story of Mrs. Gloria Eugene Minto, and is taken from the first half of her autobiography Gloria to Gloriana.
The film is a rags to riches story about a girl, Gloria, who comes from poverty, selling oranges, and ends up owning her own hotel. The hotel about which the story speaks is Hotel Glorianna, in Montego Bay, St. James.
"This is a very positive story. It touches issues dealing with hard work, love triangles, spousal abuse and adultery," said Damali Little-White associate producer at Mediamix Limited.
BIG SCREEN DEBUT
Glory to Gloriana is scheduled to make its big screen debut in early February, and will be premiered in Kingston and Montego Bay. The film is also set for international distribution. A wide array of actors and actresses are featured in the film including dancehall artiste Ce' Cile. She plays the role of a helper, who has an affair with Gloria's husband.
"It's my first acting gig. It's very minor and unglamorous role, very unlike Ce' Cile. I'm glad I did it, I liked it and I'd do it again," said Cecile.
Other cast members include Carol Campbell, radio disc-jockey Rodney Campbell, Gracian Watson, Kerry-Ann Lewis, Bobby 'Inspector Madden' Smith, Susan Mari, Winston 'Bello' Bell and Brianna Harris, who plays the young Gloria.
"I think the actors represent the story well. The film is good and everybody waiting for the release. The feedback is good. I am very proud of the film, being the only woman who has a film of her own," said Mrs. Minto.
She said that based on the experience so far she is interested in doing another film to represent the other half of her book.
Little-White told The Gleaner that he has faith in the success of the film, and refers to its ability to reach the emotions. "It's a very touching story. It's something that everyone can relate to, so I think it will do very well."Glory to Gloriana has been complemented by a song, Gloriana, sung by Luciano and produced by Dean Fraser.
