This documentary short, a collaboration by Bonfire’s Graeme Mathieson and artist/filmmaker Chris Flanagan, features the story of Jamaican ska and reggae legend, Stranger Cole. Cole moved to Toronto in the early 1970s, leaving his Jamaican stardom behind. Working several jobs to make a living, Cole finally opened the doors on his dream shop; a record store and music label - and Kensington Market’s first Caribbean business. This short catches up with Cole 40 years later in his old stomping grounds, and uses a unique style that is as authentic and playful as Cole himself. 

Graeme and Chris Flanagan are currently working on a series for the NFB, continuing the journey of uncovering Toronto’s hidden reggae history.

Credits
Director/Writer: Chris Flanagan  
DOP/Editor/Writer: Graeme Mathieson
Animation: Josh Kaplan
Sound Mix: Marina Hashemi