Dancehall artiste Alkaline is no stranger to controversy, especially since his debut in the industry with his tatted eyes. In 2017 he sparked conversations and police probes over this short film. We see Alkaline as a community don with his gang and a lone police officer who is moonlighting as a double agent within Alkaline's ranks. The film reaches its climax when the police officer starts to rethink his sting operation and Alkaline gets suspicious of his new recruit, thanks to intel from a policewoman he has 'access' to.
The film uses the ghetto as its location. A common characteristic of life in the ghetto, especially one run by a don, is pledging loyalty in a shape or form to the don and his gang. Many civilians would not want to be loyal but they do it in order to stay safe and alive in their community. Some families may even benefit financially from the gang and thus this is their sacrifice. The young double agent could also be said to sacrifice himself in the name of justice, because he knows how ruthless Alkaline's gang is firsthand (and based on their portrayal with huge M16 assault rifles and handguns.)
'After All's camera angles constantly feature the many gang members brandishing their guns. These shots coupled with the song's lyrics are a constant reminder of the gang culture in many of Jamaica's ghettos. The short film showcases the Dependent relationship many Jamaicans develop in ghetto communities such as the one in the film. This relationship highlights a material bond between many citizens in a certain place, whether through lack of choice or economic opportunities.
From the opening scene we see the loyalty: Alkaline's first right hand man take a fall for him by taking the handgun into his possession, thus going to jail for him. The sacrifice can also be seen on Alkaline's part as he collects money for one of his ward's to pay for their commissary, a new phone and any other expense. The lawyers represent the economic opportunity and also corruption that is synonymous with corporate Jamaica and ghetto crime gangs.
Watch 'After All' - Alkaline here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4wmXf2z8-1s
Sources cited:
“‘After All’ Controversy Doesn’t Add up for Alkaline.” 2017. Jamaica-Star.com. July 7, 2017. http://jamaica-star.com/article/entertainment/20170707/after-all-controversy-doesnt-add-alkaline.
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