A Crime on the Bayou is a timely true crime documentary that vividly reveals some of the roots of systemic racism in the deep south. Award-winning director Nancy Buirski deftly explores the 1966 case of Gary Duncan, a 19-year-old Black teen who was arrested outside a New Orleans high school after trying to break up a racially motivated skirmish. Northerner Richard Sobol, a young white Jewish attorney, is called on to defend Duncan who finds himself unfairly charged by a segregationist D.A. attempting to use the parish courts to advance his bigoted beliefs. Using archival images, court transcripts, and new interviews, the film reveals not only the story of this landmark Civil Rights era case but also the lifelong friendship that developed between Duncan and Sobol. A Crime on the Bayou is a compelling reminder of the work that still needs to be done, delivering that message with both heart and conviction.
Official Selection – DOC NYC
“…thoughtful and illuminating…Crime shines a light on a groundbreaking piece of recent American history that will be news to many viewers.”– Sheri Linden, The Hollywood Reporter
A pre-recorded Q&A with the film’s director, Nancy Buirski, accompanies this screening.
Available for viewing April 23 – May 2 in PA, WV, and OH only.
Watch the trailer below:
- Year2020
- Runtime91 minutes
- LanguageEnglish
- CountryUSA
- DirectorNancy Buirski
A Crime on the Bayou is a timely true crime documentary that vividly reveals some of the roots of systemic racism in the deep south. Award-winning director Nancy Buirski deftly explores the 1966 case of Gary Duncan, a 19-year-old Black teen who was arrested outside a New Orleans high school after trying to break up a racially motivated skirmish. Northerner Richard Sobol, a young white Jewish attorney, is called on to defend Duncan who finds himself unfairly charged by a segregationist D.A. attempting to use the parish courts to advance his bigoted beliefs. Using archival images, court transcripts, and new interviews, the film reveals not only the story of this landmark Civil Rights era case but also the lifelong friendship that developed between Duncan and Sobol. A Crime on the Bayou is a compelling reminder of the work that still needs to be done, delivering that message with both heart and conviction.
Official Selection – DOC NYC
“…thoughtful and illuminating…Crime shines a light on a groundbreaking piece of recent American history that will be news to many viewers.”– Sheri Linden, The Hollywood Reporter
A pre-recorded Q&A with the film’s director, Nancy Buirski, accompanies this screening.
Available for viewing April 23 – May 2 in PA, WV, and OH only.
Watch the trailer below:
- Year2020
- Runtime91 minutes
- LanguageEnglish
- CountryUSA
- DirectorNancy Buirski