“The Child’ – a powerful fictional drama written, directed, and produced by Jermaine Smith of The Brand TV, who is from East New York, Brooklyn – premieres on Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025, 4:30 p.m., at the Kent Theatre, 1170 Coney Island Ave., Brooklyn.
Aminiqué Kirnon, a Canarsie, Brooklyn educator, who plays Roxanne Johnson in the film, told Caribbean Life on Monday, Sept. 8, that “The Child” explores “the complex relationships between teachers, parents, and students, showing how blurred boundaries and whispered rumors can spiral into unexpected consequences.”
Kirnon said the story follows Johnson, a compassionate and dedicated educator, who builds strong connections with her students and their families.
Johnson’s close friendship with Vita Watson (played by Shateek Rawls) — the mother of Jamal Watson (portrayed by Tristan G. Henson-Smith) — takes an “unexpected turn when tensions arise, leading to conflicts fueled by whispers and the emotional and physical mistreatment of the child, Jamal,” Kirnon said.
Adding to the depth of the story, Kirnon not only stars as Roxanne but also contributed two original scenes to the screenplay.
Kirnon said her over 10 years of real-life experience as an educator “deeply informs” her portrayal, reflecting her passion for “ensuring that every child feels safe, supported, and understood beyond the classroom.”
Kirnon said the film also features Aoki Draggon, Aminiqué’s daughter, who plays Kayla, a close friend of Jamal Watson, alongside Zoey Skinner (as Destiny).
She said co-writers Stephen Edwards (who portrays a father) and Love Tucker (playing Assistant Principal Mrs. McCants) add “further depth and authenticity to the narrative.”
Primarily filmed in Brooklyn, with additional scenes shot in Harlem and the Bronx, Kirnon said “The Child” highlights “the importance of representation, giving children from these communities an incredible opportunity to be part of a meaningful project — an experience they’re proud and excited to share.”
Kirnon said the film is “especially close” to my heart since it explores “the complex relationships between educators, students, and families, highlighting the importance of maintaining professionalism while navigating personal connections.
“It also sheds light on the pressures teachers face — balancing high expectations, scrutiny from administrators, and emotional challenges, all while striving to put students first,” she added.
Kirnon said “The Child” began as “a simple idea during a conversation between Jermaine, me, and another cast member while brainstorming content for our acting reels.
“One thought led to another, and before we knew it, we had developed a powerful 45-minute short film that speaks to real-life experiences in education and community dynamics,” she added.
Kirnon said she firmly believes the themes in “The Child” will “resonate deeply with both educators and the wider community.”
