DENTON, Texas – A poignant chapter from Denton’s history is set to be retold on screen. The Denton Black Film Festival Institute and Southroad Pictures have announced the production of “Quakertown, USA,” a two-part documentary series that delves into the forced relocation of over 400 residents from a thriving community in Denton, Texas, during the early 20th century.
This heart-wrenching tale of displacement, which represents a multi-generational tragedy, will not only focus on the loss of homes, land, and livelihoods but will also highlight stories of recovery and resilience in the face of profound indifference and cruelty.
The city of Denton has shown its support for this endeavor by granting the Denton Black Film Festival Institute $250,000 for the production. To meet the remaining production costs, a GoFundMe campaign has been initiated.
Linda Eaddy, the film programming director at the Denton Black Film Festival, expressed her hopes for the documentary, stating, “We believe that the Quakertown story can become a lighthouse of illumination for the entire country.”
The series is set to be helmed by renowned filmmakers King Hollis and Lindell Singleton, who previously collaborated on the PBS historical documentary, “Rising: The Hall of Negro Life,” and the soon-to-be-released “Echoes from the Hill.”
King Hollis, who also serves as the executive producer, shared his personal connection to the project, saying, “I am delighted to work on a series about my hometown, where I spent my summers and where my family resides. It’s a personal story. Lindell and I are pleased to continue our work on these essential historical documentary series.”
“Quakertown, USA” is slated to begin filming this winter, with an anticipated release in late 2024.
About the Denton Black Film Festival Institute:
Originating from the Denton Black Film Festival (DBFF), the institute aims to support Black creatives from diverse backgrounds. While open to all filmmakers, the institute recognizes the unique challenges faced by those from the African and Black Diaspora due to historical exclusion. The annual festival showcases a rich tapestry of films, music, art, and spoken word, with the next event scheduled for January 24-28, 2024. More details can be found on their website.
About Southroad Pictures:
A subsidiary of Southroad Holdings, Inc., Southroad Pictures is a global black-owned studio renowned for producing acclaimed content across various genres. With a commitment to creating impactful narratives, the studio stands at the forefront of content that resonates globally. For more information, visit Southroad Pictures.
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