About Southern Rites

Southern Rites is a powerful 2015 documentary directed by Gillian Laub and produced by HBO. It explores the racial tensions and segregation that persists in the deep south of the United States, specifically in Montgomery County, Georgia. The movie unfolds the story of the area's first-ever integrated senior prom, the aftermath of a local school shooting, and the subsequent murder trial.

Making / Production

The documentary started as a project of Gillian Laub who was sent to Montgomery County by the New York Times Magazine to document segregated proms. Deeply affected by what she saw, Laub continued shooting even after the initial mission was finished. The film took nearly a decade to be released, documenting a poignant part of American history, providing a raw and timely exploration of race relations in America.

Actors

• Gillian Laub - As herself, the filmmaker who becomes an active participant in the story she is trying to tell.
• Osha Gray Davidson - As himself, the local school principal who becomes a voice for racial integration in the community.
• Norma Jean Brown - As herself, a local resident fighting for justice for her grandson, who was shot in a racially charged incident.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The director, Gillian Laub, originally visited Montgomery County to document segregated proms for the New York Times Magazine.
• Laub actually played a role in advocating for the integration of the proms in the film.
• The documentary took nearly a decade to be completed.

Quotes

• "There is more to the South than hate and racism." - Gillian Laub
• "Change takes courage." - Osha Gray Davidson
• "We've come in the door, but we ain't sat down yet." - Norma Jean Brown

Music, Soundtrack

• The powerful music score was created by composer T. Griffin.
• It creatively combines elements of traditional southern music with a modern dramatic score.

Awards

The documentary has not won any major awards but has received acclaim and recognition for its powerful portrayal of segregation and racism in the United States.