GUARDIANS OF THE FLAME, 70min., USA
Directed by Daniel Wolff
Undeterred by decades of prejudice, post-Katrina neglect, and ongoing appropriation of their traditions, three generations of the extraordinary, multi-talented Harrison family guard their legacy and define what Black masking culture means in New Orleans today.

https://www.guardiansoftheflamemovie.org/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088184293417

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film? Concern not just about the people of New Orleans but America’s racial politics.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film? 17 years.

3. How would you describe your film in two words!? Cultural warriors.

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film? We had hours of footage that needed to be made into a coherent story.

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video? Delight.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films? I’m still not sure about that.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life? Either Waterworld or Casablanca.

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career? You’re doing a great job. Thanks.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site? It makes submissions pretty easy and offers a wide range of options.

10. What is your favorite meal? The next one.

11. What is next for you? A new film? Yes, a documentary about a pair of married artists: Cathy and Harry.