Winner: "Echoes of the Bayou"
Director: James Morgan
Synopsis: A poignant reflection on the history and culture of New Orleans, following a young man’s journey to reconnect with his family’s heritage amidst modern societal changes.
Nominees:
"Whispers in the French Quarter"
Director: Claire Duval
Synopsis: A gripping story about a young artist trying to find her place in the artistic world of New Orleans, while grappling with the ghost of her past.
"Southern Grace"
Director: Samuel Rivera
Synopsis: A heartfelt drama centered around a Southern family struggling to maintain their farm amidst economic collapse, and their resilience in the face of adversity.
Best Director
Winner: Claire Duval
Film: "Whispers in the French Quarter"
Synopsis: Through delicate storytelling and a strong sense of place, this film explores the urban landscape of New Orleans and the cultural conflicts it harbors.
Nominees:
James Morgan
Film: "Echoes of the Bayou"
Synopsis: A beautifully crafted narrative exploring the complex relationships between tradition, change, and identity in New Orleans.
Samuel Rivera
Film: "Southern Grace"
Synopsis: A story of strength and survival set against the backdrop of a dying Southern town and its people’s struggle to hold on to their legacy.
Best Actor
Winner: Louis Hayes
Film: "The Last Mardi Gras"
Role: Michael, a man grieving the loss of his loved ones, seeking redemption during the chaos and celebration of Mardi Gras.
Nominees:
Ethan Blake
Film: "Whispers in the French Quarter"
Role: Sam, a struggling jazz musician caught between the allure of fame and the haunting memories of his past.
Robert Clark
Film: "Southern Grace"
Role: John, Lila’s son, who tries to reconcile with his roots while dealing with the pain of family secrets.
Best Actress
Winner: Angela Scott
Film: "Southern Grace"
Role: Lila, an elderly Southern woman reflecting on the final chapters of her life, confronting both past regrets and the enduring beauty of the South.
Nominees:
Maya Alvarez
Film: "The Garden of Lost Souls"
Role: Clara, a young woman who returns to her family’s home in New Orleans to uncover long-hidden secrets about her heritage.
Sophie Reed
Film: "The Last Mardi Gras"
Role: Emily, Michael’s estranged wife, who attempts to reconnect with him during Mardi Gras despite years of distance and pain.
Best Cinematography
Winner: Jason Waller
Film: "Through the Moss"
Synopsis: This visually stunning film captures the unique atmosphere of the Southern landscape, focusing on the interplay of light and shadow in the haunting beauty of the bayous.
Nominees:
Lara Johnson
Film: "Whispers in the French Quarter"
Synopsis: The cinematography brilliantly showcases the vibrancy and history of New Orleans, blending intimate moments with expansive cityscapes.
Michael Hughes
Film: "Southern Grace"
Synopsis: The sweeping landscapes of the Southern countryside are paired with intimate shots of the family’s struggles, creating a visual tapestry that mirrors the film’s emotional weight.
Best Editing
Winner: Olivia Chan
Film: "Echoes of the Bayou"
Synopsis: The seamless editing captures the film’s emotional beats while skillfully interweaving past and present timelines.
Nominees:
Rachel Evans
Film: "The Garden of Lost Souls"
Synopsis: The editing shifts between past and present narratives, building tension and uncovering truths at a steady pace.
Daniel Morgan
Film: "Through the Moss"
Synopsis: The film’s fluid editing style allows for a reflective journey through the bayou, with each cut revealing new layers of the film's themes.
Best Original Score
Winner: Mark Davis
Film: "Whispers in the French Quarter"
Synopsis: The score blends traditional jazz with contemporary sounds, echoing the complex layers of New Orleans’ cultural identity.
Nominees:
Emily Stone
Film: "The Last Mardi Gras"
Synopsis: The music mirrors the highs and lows of Mardi Gras, with a mix of carnival rhythms and somber undertones that complement the film’s emotional arc.
Anthony Brooks
Film: "Echoes of the Bayou"
Synopsis: A lush and evocative score that intertwines with the natural sounds of the bayou, grounding the film in its place while highlighting the internal struggles of the characters.
Best Screenplay
Winner: Claire Duval
Film: "Whispers in the French Quarter"
Synopsis: A beautifully written screenplay that captures the nuanced relationships between the characters and the spirit of New Orleans.
Nominees:
James Morgan
Film: "Echoes of the Bayou"
Synopsis: A powerful exploration of personal identity and the impact of heritage on one’s present and future.
Samuel Rivera
Film: "Southern Grace"
Synopsis: A deeply moving script that balances the personal and the universal, illustrating the quiet strength found in family ties and traditions.
