A new short horror film based on the Caribbean legend of the Soucouyant will be filmed in Antigua. The project is drawing attention to the island while bringing one of the region’s most haunting myths to life on screen.

The Soucouyant is often described as an old woman who sheds her skin and becomes a fiery ball of light at night, preying on unsuspecting victims. In Antigua and Barbuda, the story has been passed down for generations as part of the islands’ rich oral tradition.

By choosing Antigua as the filming location, the production not only highlights the country’s cultural connection to the legend but also places it on an international platform. Local audiences can take pride in seeing their folklore represented, while the film introduces the world to a unique part of Antigua’s heritage.

The film is directed by Juliette McCawley and produced by Janelle Jones, two Caribbean creatives who are committed to telling authentic regional stories. Their work combines modern filmmaking techniques with folklore, ensuring the project stays true to its roots while reaching international audiences.

The Soucouyant is the first film of its kind to be shot in Antigua—part black-and-white short film, part music video. It follows a band that shipwrecks on the island’s stunning shores, only to be haunted by a striking yet terrifying demon. Filmed at iconic Antiguan landmarks such as Fort Barrington Beach, Fort Berkeley, Falmouth Harbour, and Shirley Heights, the project revives a vampire legend rarely seen outside the Caribbean. Rooted in a mix of cultural traditions, the soucouyant embodies a chilling vision of death that is as unsettling as it is unforgettable.

Image Credit : Elite Island Studios

Further research and sources for students:

• Fangoria