Two Filmmakers Explore Caribbean Identity and Water at CSIFF26

The 2026 Conch Shell International Film Festival (CSIFF26) is set to screen two films that delve into the intricate connections between water, memory, and Caribbean identity. Aruban filmmaker Velvet Zoé Ramos and Puerto Rico-based filmmaker Lindsay Traban will present their works, "Adrift Wak Leu" and "Where the Waves End," respectively, on October 10 at the Regal UA Midway in Forest Hills, Queens.

Ramos, known for her visual artistry, has crafted "Adrift Wak Leu," a film that emerged from her artistic practice and the landscape of Aruba. The title "Wak Leu" is derived from Papiamento, a language spoken in Aruba, and Ramos interprets it as daydreaming. The film takes an experimental and poetic approach, using open-ended imagery and symbolism rather than a traditional narrative structure. According to Ramos, the film is designed to leave viewers with a sense of being lost, encouraging them to find their own connections within the work.

Traban, whose film "Where the Waves End" explores grief, human relationships, and memory, draws inspiration from her island life. The beach, a central element in her film, represents both escape and emotion. Traban emphasizes the actors' contributions, noting how their personal experiences brought authenticity to the characters and the film's emotional depth.

Both films share a common theme: water as more than just a backdrop. For Traban, water symbolizes the everyday experience of island life, offering a space to explore the complexities of grief. Ramos sees water as a broader connection, representing the identity of Caribbean people. In "Adrift Wak Leu," the churning water and lack of horizon reflect the idea of being lost, while still water without a horizon suggests a moment of clarity or reflection.

The films are part of CSIFF26's Shifting Realities Film Block, which aims to present a diverse range of stories from Caribbean and Caribbean diaspora filmmakers. The festival, now in its fourth edition, runs from October 9 to 11, 2026, and will feature more than 40 films. The theme, "Our Culture Lives in Our Stories," underscores the importance of storytelling in preserving and sharing cultural heritage.

CSIFF26 Founder and Director Magaly Colimon-Christopher sees the connection between the two films as a reflection of the shared experiences across Caribbean cultures.

The festival invites New York audiences to experience the films not just as entertainment, but as opportunities to discover the breadth of stories being created by Caribbean and Caribbean diaspora filmmakers today. The screenings are part of a broader effort to amplify voices and expand perceptions of Caribbean storytelling.