We are Anacaona Pictures
Our label, Anacaona Pictures, was founded in 2019 by Mahalia Inés Pridgett and Erik Francisco Medina. A conversation surrounding the misrepresentation and underrepresentation of Caribbean people led to the creation of our company, baptized with the name of the Taino revolutionary, Anacaona.
Like the Caribbean indigenous rebel, Anacaona Pictures fights to create a space where all cultures are valued, respected, and uplifted within media. We thrive in exploring the different reactions and outcomes of people attached together in complex situations as they navigate their individual lives. At Anacaona Pictures, we desire nothing more than to champion Caribbean culture, people, of color and women in film, television, and documentaries.
Mahalia Inés Pridgett was born and partially raised in West Hempstead, NY. Growing up, her parents would frequently send her back to their hometown in Thomassin, Haiti. She received her Bachelors in Broadcast Journalism at Oakwood University and is currently attending the Savannah College of Art and Design for an MFA in Film and Television. Throughout the course of her career, Mahalia has interned at Viola Davis’ production company, JuVee Productions, introduced a panel at Sundance Film Festival, and has gone to Hong Kong to film a TV pilot and short film. She has also produced over seven thesis films and a podcast called "The Struggle Is REEL". In 2019, She co-founded Anacaona Pictures, a film development company highlighting people of color and women in film, television, and documentaries. Mahalia has been featured as a rising filmmaker on Voyage ATL, Oz Magazine, Medium.com, and MovieMaker Magazine.
Erik Francisco Medina is a writer, filmmaker, and development producer from Canóvanas, Puerto Rico. He brings a much-needed new perspective to his work, creating thought-provoking works that explore the experiences of young people of color in modern America. Erik is not beholden to a single medium, incorporating everything from music and cuisine to politics to bring his visions to life. Erik holds an MFA in Film and Television from Savannah College of Art and Design, and a BA in Mass Communications from Universidad del Turabo. He currently splits his time between Atlanta, Puerto Rico and Los Angeles, where he continues to use his creativity to start important conversations and propel society forward.
