What are your earliest memories of Kingston?

When I was in Negril, I was told that Kingston was a dangerous place. When I came to Kingston I found it was just like any other city, perhaps just smaller. You really do need someone who knows the city to take you around. But the energy here is great. Man, I love Kingston; the roads are much better here (laughs).

What do you miss when you are not in Kingston?

Everything. The people are funny, warm; and things are way cheaper here than in Canada.

What was your most memorable meal in Kingston?

I had the steamed fish at a restaurant called Jim’s Place. At the time I was worried that the fish in Kingston may not be a good as the ones in Negril, Oh boy, was I wrong.

What would you do if you were mayor of Kingston for a day?

Legalise some things (laughs).

What steered you into filmmaking?

I got into film while I was living in Negril. When I came to Jamaica I saw the poverty and suffering and I thought, What is the best way to promote Jamaica using my technical skills? I couldn’t be happy unless everyone around me was happy, so I thought the best way to do it was through film.

What was your very first film?

It was called Destination Jamaica. My friends had a very big beachfront in Negril and we thought we would make an infomercial. However, when Barbara Blake Hannah saw it, she said, “That’s a documentary, George.” The infomercial turned into a film and they accepted it as one of the best films at the Reggae Film Festival in 1983.

Of all the projects you’ve worked on, which is your favourite?

I’d have to say the film festival. I see a lot of potential in the festival.

What led you to become a Rastafarian?

I was a magician (laughs). I could do all sorts of tricks and I don’t like people having anything over on me. However, I go around the Rastafarians and all of a sudden, I realise they have something over on me and I’m no longer winning. I asked them why they keep on winning and they told me the truth. My world was different after that. I believed Rasta was the winning team and I wanted to be on that team. I chose Rastafari three years before I knew who Bob Marley was, because I believed that was the way to go. When I knew Bob, my faith was further cemented. He was a representative for Rastafari, a great man. Bob spoke the truth. It’s amazing because Bob’s music was universal. He didn’t just sing for black people. He sang for all races because every race experienced poverty and suffering.

What has been your richest experience as a Rastafarian?

In Jamaica I saw people with nothing much happier than the man with everything in Canada. In Canada, many people with wealth are often so sad and disgusted with the world. I come to Jamaica and see a man with no shoes or who doesn’t even know where his next meal is coming from and he’s laughing and living life to the fullest.

Share the title of the last book you read.

The Rum Diary by Hunter S Thompson.

What’s your favourite movie?

Two Jamaican films, actually. Countryman and The Harder They Come.

What’s the last bit of music that stirred your soul?

I’ve been listening to a lot of Eek-a-Mouse lately.

What was your last bit of retail therapy?

This Armani suit and a pair of Gucci shoes.

What is your preferred beverage?

Soursop juice.

What upsets you?

Poverty! The worst thing for an intelligent man’s mind is poverty. I hate it!

Share your favourite spot on the island.

Negril, man! It’s the most beautiful place on the face of the earth.

Share some places in your black book.

The Harrah’s Hotel in Las Vegas. It is family-oriented and just a wonderful place to be. I love Napa Valley, California, too.

What can we expect from George for the near future?

I’m trying to put together my clothing line right now. That should be ready soon. I’m also writing a book called 101 Short Stories of Dreads.

What’s your philosophy?

“Go Green”.