Isabelle Armand directs GLENDORA, a documentary about a rural Mississippi town's efforts to redefine and strengthen its cultural history amidst economic struggle.

Glendora, Mississippi is the poorest city in Tallahatchie County, with a population of less than 200. Marked by a history of cotton gins and sharecropping, the economic viability of the town remains inseparably linked to segregation. Once the White community left, so did the money.

The documentary showcases multiple organizations and individuals' efforts to find success and shine a spotlight on the community. Whether it be a rapper growing a fanbase in his house, local government commissioning the construction of a museum dedicated to Emmett Till or a nonprofit providing educational, housing and medical services for the community, Glendora comes across as a town full of go-getters and entreprenurial spirits.

Armand's camera sits right in the middle of everyday life, of prom parades, weddings and funerals. Her compositions let landscapes and skies sit open wide, allowing the buildings to stand out. These places are usually ignored (They won't make any architectural magazine covers) but through Armand's lens, they're lovingly positioned front and center. I think that sums up the documentary quite well.

GLENDORA will premiere at the Dances With Films: NY festival on January 16.

More information can be found ⁠here.⁠

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