Comic relief, Bajan style

Too Lickerish debuts at Olympus Theatres May 30

Seth Xcel Bovell is a comedian whose videos have gone viral on social media. His funny comedies have an authentic Barbadian flare.

Bovell has taken his career a step further with the release of his first film, Too Lickrish, which will premiere in Olympus Theatres on May 30.

Speaking to Bajan Vibes, he said comedy is natural for him as well as his family members.

“I was into comedy my whole life; I just wasn’t aware of it because it was just so natural for me and my family. My father even confessed to me he wanted to be a comedian when he was younger. When my uncle died in 2014, it motivated me to create a legacy and leave my mark on the world through my art. Each day, I try to achieve that more and more,” he said.

Bovell said his movie Too Lickrish is relatable as it follows a couple who is struggling to make ends meet and then receive a breakthrough in their finances.

“This movie is kind of like America meets Barbados because my costar is an amazing actress Ryanne Mckay from Texas. We also brought in a crew from

. . . America to help with production. So, it is the tourist point of view and the Bajan point of view all mixed together in one movie,” he said.

The actor who plays an exaggerated version of Seth Bovell creates schemes to make money which lead to trouble.

“The character creates different ways to make money which cause him and his girlfriend to get in more and more trouble. As for the name, we wanted something that is ‘Bajan to the bone’ but still made sense with the theme of the movie and Too Lickrish was perfect,” he told Bajan Vibes.

Bovell told Bajan Vibes that living overseas made him appreciate culture more. So he tries to ensure that his film maintains the uniqueness of Barbadian culture and heritage.

“Living overseas made me appreciate… everything that makes us unique. So, embracing Bajan culture came naturally because I am very proud to be Bajan,” he said.

The comedian and actor told Bajan Vibes that it is important for artistes to understand that their art is their business. “I think it is very important to really be able to focus on your craft and reach your true potential. Certain things in your reality need to be dealt with such as bills, rent, etc., which sometimes can cause stress and make you lose focus. So, if you can make money from your craft, do it so you can be comfortable in your everyday life and reach even higher heights,” he said. (LG)