Emmanuel Phillips is a Virgin Islands-raised photographer and filmmaker from the island of Saint Thomas. Emmanuel's early introduction to the creative industry came at the tender age of 10 as a member of a family music group. However, his true calling was yet to be discovered.Following his high school graduation, Emmanuel developed a deep-seated passion for photography, a craft that, unbeknownst to him, had familial roots-his own father had been a photographer in the past.What started as a hobby quickly evolved into an all-encompassing love for visual storytelling, transitioning seamlessly from photography into a fervent devotion to cinematography.As a filmmaker, Emmanuel Phillips passionately delves into a myriad of compelling subjects, often focusing on social issues with a particular emphasis on black culture. His work combines personal reflections with imaginative storytelling, employing an improvisational approach that allows the real-life experiences of his subjects to shine through in every frame.Emmanuel's portfolio includes directing and shooting music videos, fashion campaigns, product promotions, and thought-provoking short films. Presently, Emmanuel is at the forefront of a dynamic creative landscape, where he is actively developing two television series and his first feature-length film, all set against the captivating backdrop of the Virgin Islands. These projects are dedicated to showcasing Caribbean culture in a manner that has never been explored on television before.Emmanuel Phillips harbors a profound aspiration-to transform the US Virgin Islands into a thriving hub for the film and photography industry. His vision extends beyond merely providing world-class facilities and equipment for Hollywood-level productions; it encompasses the essential element of nurturing local talent. Emmanuel is committed to providing education and skills training to the local workforce, empowering them to rival the expertise of film school graduates.Through his art and dedication, he seeks to establish the US Virgin Islands as a beacon of cinematic excellence and cultural representation on the global stage. Emmanuel Phillips, the filmmaker, is driven by a profound desire to tell compelling stories, celebrate underrepresented voices, and inspire the next generation of visual storytellers in his beloved homeland.

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FILM

We Are Taino

PROGRAM AFFILIATION

HOMEGROWN: A Part Of/Apart From

COHORT YEAR

2024

INSTAGRAM

@mr_efex