Open Casting Call Announced for Feature Film Ivan

Ivan is a feature film written and directed by Caymanian filmmaker Jazz Pitcairn, inspired by true events surrounding Hurricane Ivan.

Set against the days leading up to the storm’s landfall in Grand Cayman, the film follows Mia Clark Thompson, a rising political figure fighting to maintain her lead in a parliamentary election, when a formidable new challenger enters the race: her father. As the hurricane approaches, personal history, political power, and questions of leadership collide.

The film has Sheryl Lee Ralph (Abbott Elementary) and Teyonah Parris (The Marvels, Chi-Raq) attached to star, with Caymanian filmmaker Frank E. Flowers serving as Executive Producer. Lead Producer Nikkia Moulterie previously produced, Nanny, a film that won the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival in 2022.

In June 2025, Ivan was selected for the Tribeca Film Festival Untold Stories Competition, one of the most competitive development platforms in the world. Out of only five projects invited to pitch, Ivan placed second overall.

The production has announced open casting calls in the Cayman Islands as part of a broader commitment to local participation both on screen and behind the camera.

Director Jazz Pitcairn emphasized the importance of local voices in telling this story:

“This film comes from lived experience. It’s rooted in Cayman, in our history, and in how this community showed up for each other during an impossible moment. It’s essential to me that Caymanians are not just represented on screen, but are deeply involved in shaping the film at every level.”

“We’re looking for people who feel connected to this place and this story. Whether someone has acting experience or not, what matters is authenticity. I’m excited to discover local talent and give Caymanians the opportunity to see themselves reflected in a major feature film.”

“This is a chance to build something together,” Pitcairn said. “Ivan is a love letter to Cayman. Bringing local cast and crew into the process is how we make sure that love letter feels honest.”