Watch Southern Rites

Southern Rites is a documentary film directed by Gillian Laub, released in 2015. The film is based on a photo essay, also by Laub, that explores the lives of teenagers in Montgomery County, Georgia, where, until recently, segregated proms were still a tradition. The movie opens with the prom of the local high school, where white students are seen dancing and having fun, while black students are not allowed in. This sets the stage for the documentary, which then explores the lives of those who are affected by racism and segregation in Montgomery County.

Laub follows several storylines, including the case of Justin Patterson, a young black man who was shot and killed by a white man, Norman Neesmith. The film captures the tension in the community as Neesmith's trial is about to begin, and as people come to terms with the reality of racism in their town.

The documentary also focuses on a group of teenagers, both black and white, who are fighting to change the segregated prom tradition. One of the most powerful moments in the film is when the black students hold their own prom, a separate event that is open to everyone.

Laub also introduces us to several families and individuals who are affected by racism in Montgomery County. For example, we meet Gwen, a black woman who has worked as a housekeeper for a white family for many years. She talks about the challenges of living in a town where racism is still prevalent, and where people like her are not always treated as equal.

Southern Rites is a powerful and thought-provoking film that raises important questions about race and segregation in America. Laub's intimate and honest approach allows us to connect with the individuals on-screen and understand their experiences, even as we are confronted with the darkness at the heart of their community.

Throughout the film, Laub's camera captures the beauty and complexity of Montgomery County, from the lush green landscape to the faces of its residents. The film's soundtrack, consisting of both original music and popular songs, adds depth and emotion to each scene.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Southern Rites is its ability to balance the personal and the political. We learn about the lives of the people in Montgomery County, and at the same time, we gain a deeper understanding of the broader social and political issues that they face.

Overall, Southern Rites is a powerful and moving testament to the resilience and strength of the human spirit in the face of racism and injustice. Laub's film is a must-see for anyone who wants to gain a deeper understanding of race relations in America, and of the ongoing struggle for justice and equality in our society.

Southern Rites is a 2015 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 27 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.6.