Leslie Vanderpool, founder of the Bahamas International Film Festival (BIFF), has highlighted the urgent need for policies and incentives to develop a functional film industry in The Bahamas. Speaking at the launch of BIFF’s 20th anniversary edition, Vanderpool emphasized that the country is losing significant opportunities to regional competitors due to the lack of a national framework to support filmmakers. She cited the film *The Queen’s Jewels*, which is set in The Bahamas but was entirely shot in the Dominican Republic, as a glaring example of missed potential. Vanderpool noted that the Dominican Republic’s robust tax incentives and skilled workforce have enabled it to produce over 50 films annually, while The Bahamas struggles to attract productions. She called for immediate action to create a competitive environment for filmmakers, pointing to past successes like the Bond films and *Into the Blue* as proof of the country’s potential. The 20th edition of BIFF, running from December 7 to 14, will feature screenings, tributes, and workshops, including a special screening of *The Queen’s Jewels*. Vanderpool also announced that Marvel star Anthony Mackie will receive the 2025 Sidney Poitier Award, and Sawyer Spielberg, son of legendary director Steven Spielberg, will be honored for his work. The festival continues to prioritize education and professional development, offering workshops, mentorship programs, and a writers’ residency to nurture Bahamian talent. Vanderpool urged corporate Bahamas to support the festival, emphasizing its role in fostering the local film industry.