Style Observer (SO): How would you describe yourself in a few words?

Daneil Campbell (DC): I’m curious, optimistic, and always eager to learn something new. I’m a mix of introvert and extrovert, depending on the day.

SO: You are the writer of Love Offside. They say opportunity and preparation afford success. Do please share how you prepared for this opportunity.

DC: I agree that opportunity and preparation afford success. For me, the preparation was a bit accidental. I spent years writing on Wattpad, not knowing it was preparing me for an opportunity like Love Offside. Looking back, every story was helping me get ready for a bigger stage.

Words to live by….

SO: What was it like seeing your characters come alive on the screen?

DC: It was very surreal. As a novelist, I always have my characters in my head and my own ideas of what they look and sound like. So I was a little nervous to see them brought to the screen. But once they were, a whole new world opened up. Seeing these characters come to life was an amazing experience, and every time I watch them on screen, I’m still in awe.

SO: Did you have a say in the selection of any of the characters?

DC: Yes, to some extent. I was shown some audition tapes and kept in the loop during the process, but I trusted the casting team, especially Kimala, to make the right decisions. In the end, I was very happy with the cast because every choice felt like a great fit for the characters.

SO: How has your life changed (if any) since the movie’s release?

DC: I wouldn’t say my life has changed in any major way yet, especially since the film hasn’t officially been released. But after the screenings and festival appearances, it definitely feels more real. The biggest change is that I can now say I’m a credited screenwriter, and that’s a milestone I’m very proud of.

SO: What steps need to be taken to move our industry forward?

DC: From a creative standpoint, we need to keep telling authentic Jamaican stories that can connect with audiences both locally and internationally. We have no shortage of stories or talented storytellers.

From an industry standpoint, we need continued investment in local creatives through mentorship, training, and opportunities, much like the support I received from Kimala. We already have the writers, producers, directors, and crew.

Finally, continued support for the film industry through initiatives like the Film Fund will help raise production standards and create more opportunities. The more we invest in our stories and our talent, the more the industry can grow and reach wider audiences.

SO: Share with us your five all-time favourite movies.

DC: That list changes almost every week, but I’d say Pretty Woman for its charm, Notting Hill for its wit, How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days for the chemistry, Love Jones for the romance, and Dirty Dancing because it’s a classic.

SO: How soon can we look forward to another of your scripts coming alive on the screen?

DC: Very soon, I hope. I’m currently writing new scripts, and I also have other projects at different stages of production. Some have already wrapped production and are awaiting distribution, so there’s definitely more to look forward to in the near future.

SO: Shifting gears now… How do you relax?

Cocktail in hand, Daniel Campbell cuts a fashionable figure in Zara, accented with accessories from Fashion Nova.Joseph Wellington

DC: Reading is my first love, but I also enjoy getting lost in a good series. There’s something relaxing about finishing my skincare routine, getting comfortable, and escaping into another world for a few hours. My taste is pretty varied — I enjoy everything from coming-of-age and romance stories to K-dramas, C-dramas, and American series.

SO: If you could only sip one cocktail for the rest of the summer, what would it be?

DC: An Estate Daiquiri.

SO: Which song is currently playing in your head?

Estate Daiquiri 2oz Appleton Estate 8-Year-Old Rum 0.5oz simple syrup 1oz lime juice  (Joseph Wellington)

DC: Apparently, it’s
Goodness of God by CeCe Winans. It wasn’t playing in my head before, but the moment I read this question, that was the first song that came to mind!

SO: What’s your one wardrobe staple?

DC: A good pair of jeans. I love how versatile they are — you can dress them up or down, and they’re comfortable at the same time. They’ve always felt very me.

SO: Share with us a few of your handbag essentials

DC: A charger, because my phone is always running low on battery, lip gloss because I feel incomplete without it, my phone, perfume, keys, purse, and blotting powder. I also usually have my camera with me because I’m always taking photos and videos when I’m out and about.

SO: Heels or flats?

DC: As a tall girl, I feel so elegant in heels, but when it comes to comfort, flats win every time.

SO: A night in or out?

DC: A night in, without question. Give me a good series, a cosy spot, and I’m happy.

SO: Share with us the title of the last book you read.

Daniel Campbell cuts a trendy figure in Zara, accented with accessories from Fashion Nova.

A peek inside the handbag reveals the little luxuries and everyday essentials that help Campbell navigate work, social engagements, and everything in between: Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Heat — Fu$$y, Canon G7x, powder brush, phone, car keys. Joseph Wellington

DC: The last book I read was
Under One Roof, a Harlequin romance novel. I actually revisited it because it was the first romance novel I ever read. I love rereading books at different stages of life because you always discover something new in them.

SO: Which country/countries are on your summer travel itinerary?

DC: It might just be an Italian summer for me… if I can escape work long enough to make it happen.

SO: Finally, what’s your personal credo?

DC: I try to live by the verse “Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it.” It reminds me to keep God at the centre of everything I do and to trust His guidance. For me, it’s a daily reminder that what is built with purpose and faith will stand.