Graeme Mathieson
Raised by parents who immigrated from Jamaica and Scotland respectively, Graeme’s heritage has had a lasting effect on his work as an award winning filmmaker. His exposure to diverse perspectives from a young age has fuelled a profound curiosity and nurtured his ability to empathize with people’s stories.
As a director, Graeme's professional journey has been a global odyssey, spanning continents from Ethiopia to Chile, Jamaica to Japan. His portfolio boasts a diverse range of subjects, including collaborations with sprinter Ben Johnson, reggae stars Leroy Sibbles, Johnny Osbourne, Sly Dunbar, NBA star Danny Green, leader Jagmeet Singh and comedian Russell Peters. Graeme uses filmmaking to create an ethical space while digging deep into sensitive subject matter and working with communities that deserve a platform for their stories and history.
Graeme’s breadth of work is culturally rooted and consistently tells authentic stories that demand to be heard. His documentary series with the National Film Board of Canada Sounds & Pressure: Reggae in a Foreign Land, premiering summer of 2024, similarly aligns with his values and is inspired by his culture and love for reggae. This captivating five part anthology series, directed by Graeme, tells the stories of some of Jamaica’s brightest stars during the golden age of reggae as they leave their homelands to transform Toronto into a reggae Mecca against all odds.
Determined to amplify underrepresented narratives through documentary and unscripted series, Graeme co-founded the production company Bonfire Originals. This venture underscores his dedication to shedding light on untold stories and historically marginalized voices, utilizing the power of visual storytelling to create meaningful impact.
Beyond his directorial achievements, Graeme’s other passion is digging through vinyl crates for rare soul, ska, reggae and funk music. Graeme is instantly recognizable in Toronto as DJ Gramera, a title earned through his 15-year tenure hosting Stolen Souls on the community radio station CHRY 105.5 FM. His passion for music extends beyond the airwaves, as he actively engages in DJing and curating the music he represents and loves.
Instagram: @gramantics
Videography
Play It Loud! How Toronto Got Soul
2025, 83:52 minutes, colour, English (available with English closed captions or French subtitles)