Music video and film director Benny Boom set for screenwriters workshop

Respected American film and music video director Benny Boom is among several celebrities who will participate in the fourth annual Screenwriter’s Workshop series being hosted by Strike Star Entertainment over two days from September 15-16 at the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts. Benny Boom will deliver a keynote address at the workshop which is designed to introduce young and aspiring professionals to the film industry. In an interview with Observer Online, Benny Boom shared what he will bring to the screenwriters’ workshop.

“I’m bringing my experience, my perspective, and my commitment to helping writers understand how powerful their voice is. Paul Eckstein (one of the founders of the workshop) was someone I deeply respected — not just for his creativity, but for the way he championed storytellers. His belief in developing writers and expanding access is something I carry with me," Boom said.

"So, when I step into this workshop, I’m bringing that same spirit: honesty, mentorship, and a real desire to help emerging writers elevate their craft,” the experienced director continued. “You can expect clarity and real, practical guidance. I want writers to understand how directors read scripts, how we translate words into images, and what makes a story visually compelling.

I want participants to walk away with tools they can use immediately.” This is the second year that Benny Boom will participate in the workshop. “Coming back for a second year was an easy decision, this workshop is doing real work for Jamaican creatives, and I’m proud to support it,” he affirmed. Benny Boom directed Sean Paul’s video for the Billboard-charting hit Like Glue.

“I’ve had the privilege of working with incredible Jamaican artistes, and each project carries its own story and impact. What I enjoy most is capturing the essence of Jamaican culture — the movement, the attitude, the truth of it — and bringing that to the screen. Directing Sean Paul’s Like Glue is definitely one of my favourite experiences.

The energy on that set was incredible — fun, fast‑moving, and creatively electric,” he said. Asked what he enjoys most about being in Jamaica, he said “Jamaica has a rhythm that inspires you. The culture, the people, the energy, it’s all authentic.