About Us

Spirit of ’38 Productions is an independent documentary film house dedicated to preserving and amplifying the political and social histories of the Caribbean.

We specialize in producing meticulously researched visual narratives that challenge conventional perspectives and provide a platform for the voices of the Jamaican and broader Caribbean diaspora.

The name "Spirit of ’38" honors two transformative milestones in Caribbean history: 1838, the year of full emancipation from slavery, and 1938, the year of the Jamaican labor rebellions that ignited the modern movement for self-determination. Our mission is to carry forward this legacy of resistance and progress through the medium of film, ensuring that these vital historical lessons remain accessible to future generations.

Richard Audley Vaughan Founder & Lead Filmmaker.

Richard Audley Vaughan is an award-winning independent filmmaker and visual historian currently based in Oakland, CA. A son of the Jamaican diaspora, Richard views the camera as an essential tool for historical reclamation. His work focuses on dissecting complex political landscapes and uncovering the human stories behind revolutionary movements.

Recognized for his uncompromising artistic integrity, Richard’s films have garnered international acclaim, including awards from the Madrid International Filmmaker Festival and the Amsterdam Film Festival. His approach blends rigorous research with a passionate commitment to cultural and political education.

Our Filmography

Acts of Historical Reclamation

•The Price of Love: Cheddi Jagan (2024): An unflinching look at the decades-long struggle of the Guyanese leader in the face of colonial machinations and international political pressures.

•Four Years of Love: The Grenada Revolution (2021): A powerful testament to the attempt to build a new social order in Grenada and the external forces that ultimately led to its collapse.

•Rolling Along: An Inline Movement (2017): A dialectical analysis of an urban subculture, exploring the community and social potential within the global inline skating movement.

•The Word is Love: Jamaica's Michael Manley (2012): A critical examination of the life and career of Jamaica’s fourth Prime Minister, capturing his role as a champion for the people amidst the challenges of the Cold War era.

Our Mission

Spirit of ’38 Productions stands at the intersection of art and advocacy. We believe that history is a living force, and our films serve as both a record of the past and a call to action for the present. By documenting the struggles for independence and social justice, we aim to inspire a deeper understanding of the Caribbean’s enduring impact on the global stage.

We invite you to explore our collection and join us in this vital journey of historical reclamation and cultural empowerment.