It’s late summer here in Nashville, Tennessee, and that brings a few things to mind. It’s the final stretch for enjoying a summer getaway. It also means the little one is back in school, taking steps toward greater independence from Dad. My favorite time of year — Halloween and the spooky season — is just around the corner. And, of course, it’s almost time for the annual Nashville Film Festival.
With a wide array of great projects from independent and local talents, the 55th Nashville Film Festival promises to be yet another spectacular showcase of cinematic talent. One of the offerings this year is A King Like Me, which I have had the opportunity to view prior to the festival.
A King Like Me is a powerful documentary that explores the history and significance of the Zulu Social Aid & Pleasure Club, the first Black Mardi Gras krewe in New Orleans. Founded during a time when the Ku Klux Klan was gaining influence in Louisiana, the Zulu Club began as a simple parade group. However, it quickly evolved into a vital source of leadership and a pillar of the Black community.
The documentary highlights the resilience of the Zulu Club as it confronts the challenges of violent racism, the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, the COVID-19 pandemic and the social and economic fallout from these events. Despite these hardships, the Zulu Club remains a beacon of hope, steadfast in its mission to uplift its members and preserve the rich cultural heritage of New Orleans.
Terrence Rice, a key figure featured in the film, poignantly reflects on the enduring struggle for acceptance faced by the Black community. He notes that no matter how hard they strive for recognition, systemic barriers persist. Yet, the Zulu Club continues to pursue acceptance while fiercely honoring and protecting the traditions that define their culture. This documentary not only sheds light on the historical significance of the Zulu Club but also celebrates its ongoing commitment to community, resilience and cultural pride.
Truly thought-provoking and deeply inspiring, A King Like Me is a masterfully crafted documentary that delves into the triumphs and tribulations of a community group dedicated to making a meaningful impact. The film brilliantly captures the duality of joy and sorrow experienced by the members of the Zulu Club. With exceptional production quality and a compelling narrative, A King Like Me offers an intimate look at a resilient group’s relentless pursuit of progress, community and cultural preservation.
This documentary not only highlights their struggles, but also celebrates their enduring spirit and unwavering commitment to uplifting their community.
As I mentioned earlier, the 55th Nashville Film Festival is set to showcase an impressive array of films, including impactful documentaries like A King Like Me, alongside a diverse selection of both fiction and non-fiction works. Running from September 19th to 25th, 2024, this year’s festival promises to be a cinematic feast, featuring the creative visions of some lesser-known directors, such as Vincent Grashaw, Nicholas Colia, Chris Smith and Francis Whately.
Whether your taste leans toward chilling horror films, thought-provoking shorts, gripping crime dramas or heartwarming inspirational stories, the Nashville Film Festival offers something for everyone. With such a broad spectrum of genres and styles, this event is sure to captivate audiences and celebrate the richness of storytelling in all its forms.
In addition to its diverse film lineup, the 55th Nashville Film Festival offers an array of experiences for film enthusiasts and industry professionals alike. Kicking off on September 19th, the festival begins with an opening night party at one of Nashville’s most iconic venues, The Parthenon. Following the festivities, attendees can enjoy a special screening of Francis Whately’s new film, Rebel Country, which delves into the recent transformations within the country music genre.
For those eager to dive deeper into the film industry, the festival offers a series of creator events at the Hilton Green Hills. These include insightful panels on topics such as crafting compelling narratives, pitching ideas to investors and navigating the film festival circuit to maximize exposure for your project. Each evening, one of the official entries will be showcased, providing attendees the opportunity to engage with the filmmakers, ask questions and gain a deeper understanding of their creative visions.
Personally, I’ve put together a well-curated list of must-see films at this year’s festival. Topping my list is Catch a Killer, a crime-horror drama about a couple who decipher the pattern of a serial killer, only to find themselves in his crosshairs. Another highlight is Haze, a psychological thriller from director Mathew Fifer, which follows a young journalist investigating a string of deaths at an abandoned psychiatric facility. Lastly, Clone Cops piqued my interest with its depiction of a dystopian future where a single corporation controls everything, including the police force.
I’ve got a few more films on my radar, so don’t be surprised if others make it into my event review.
In summary, the 55th Nashville Film Festival is brimming with opportunities for both cinephiles and industry professionals, making it a must-attend event for anyone passionate about filmmaking. For more details and a full schedule of activities, visit https://nashvillefilmfestival.org.
Screenings will be held at some of the area’s top theaters, including Regal Green Hills, the Belcourt and The Franklin Theatre. As one of the best events for film enthusiasts nationwide, this year’s festival promises to be one of the best in recent memory. Don’t miss out — get your tickets today and join fellow film fans for an unforgettable cinematic experience.