BY FRANCES-ANNE SOLOMON
I am forever grateful to all the incredible humans who helped bring HERO to life…
As a female filmmaker, I was keenly aware that Ulric’s story was a tale of inspiring men — like George Padmore, Kwame Nkrumah, and Patrice Lumumba. Ulric lived a swashbuckling life, fighting battles, leading delegations, and meeting kings and presidents — as an RAF navigator, lawyer, diplomat, and judge.
I brought a different perspective to this extraordinary story.
The Storyteller: “Nicola”
It was important for me to position the story’s lens as female. So I chose to tell it from the point of view of a fictional character representing his daughter, Nicola Cross. The dramatic feature is structured as she interrogates him, in his old age, about his life; and he narrates the film’s story to her. So, she represents my perspective on Ulric, across generations and genders.
Thanks to the brilliant actor Jessica B. Hill who plays “Nicola” in HERO.
Extra special thanks to the real Nicola Cross, who generously shared her father’s photos, memories, and letters, helping us understand the man behind the hero. Ulric wasn’t just a decorated soldier or diplomat, he was a loving father who believed in a better world. Without Nicola’s trust, there would be no HERO.
The Love Interest: Anne
When I interviewed Anne Cross, Ulric’s wife, she struck me as extraordinary—honest, feisty, a true activist, and an admirable, gutsy woman. Theirs was a partnership that transcended boundaries, as she traveled with him across the world. As one of the only white characters, her authenticity and courage shone through, challenging stereotypes. Her ability to navigate complex cultural and social dynamics with grace and conviction spoke volumes.
Anne’s story in HERO offers an intimate glimpse into the private integrity of a public figure, showing how their bond provided a foundation for Ulric’s achievements.
Pippa Nixon beautifully inhabited the role of “Anne” in HERO.
The Antagonist: “Daphne Park”
In spy stories, the Bad Guys are generally shady men in trench coats. When I learned that one of the key accomplices to the murder of Congolese Prime Minister Lumumba was a dreadful British woman named Daphne Park, I was fascinated. She ran MI6 operations in Congo during that tumultuous period, and partnered with the French, Belgian and US representatives to murder the Congo’s first Black leader. Cambridge-educated, smooth as butter, and ruthless, Park was a perfect villain—committed to British interests and willing to do whatever it took to undermine African sovereingnty. She represents the challenges Ulric faced throughout his career.
Canadian actor Valerie Buhagiar plays “Daphne Park” in HERO.
The REVOLUNTIONARY: Amy Garvey
The African independence movements of the mid-20th century were often led by men, but organized by women. Amy Garvey, Marcus Garvey’s widow, was one such leader – a powerful pan-africanist whose work connected the Caribbean to Africa, and whose ideas influenced the world that Ulric moved in.
Late in the production of the film, amazing Melanie Nicholls-King joined our cast to play the iconic Amy Garvey, highlighting the vital role women have always played in our transformation movements.
Actor Melanie Nicholls-King plays Amy Ashwood Garvey in HERO.
The Women who Made HERO
Finally – Kudos to the all-female team that led HERO!
Over the 10 years it took to fund and complete the film, my mother, Anne Marie Stewart, never stopped believing in this project, even when I doubted myself. Her faith carried me through the toughest moments, reminding me why the story mattered and why I had to keep going.
Executive Producer Lisa Wickham brought her expertise and drive to help us cross the Finish Line, and take the film to audiences around the world. Her dedication and vision were instrumental in shaping the journey of Hero from production to the global stage.
About Frances-Anne Solomon
Frances-Anne Solomon is an award-winning director, writer, and producer recognized internationally for her work across film, television, and radio. Born in England, raised in Trinidad, her career has been shaped by a transatlantic sensibility that infuses her storytelling with global resonance. Solomon’s credits include multiple award-winning productions and the founding of CaribbeanTales Media Group, a pioneering platform for Caribbean storytelling worldwide. She is a Director member of AMPAS, and BAFTA.
