Hexing a Hurricane facts for kids

Hexing a Hurricane is a documentary film from 2006. It tells the story of how Hurricane Katrina affected the city of New Orleans. Many people called it the "first Katrina documentary" made by someone from New Orleans. Jeremy Campbell directed the film, and the National Film Network shared it with audiences. Eric Laws, an artist from New Orleans, created the music for the film.

The film starts by showing life in New Orleans six weeks before Hurricane Katrina hit. It opens with a Voodoo ceremony in the 9th Ward. This ceremony took place at the start of hurricane season. People asked spirits for protection from dangerous storms. After the powerful hurricane struck, the film follows local people and how they were affected.

Who Appears in the Film?

The film features many interesting people from New Orleans. They share their experiences and thoughts after Hurricane Katrina.

Meet the People in Hexing a Hurricane

• Chris Rose: He was a columnist for The Times-Picayune newspaper.
• Angela Hill: She was a news anchor for WWL-TV Channel 4.
• Garland Robinette: He hosted a radio talk show on WWL (AM).
• Harry Anderson: A well-known actor and former resident of New Orleans. He also owned a local club.
• Irvin Mayfield: A talented musician from New Orleans.
• Sallie Ann Glassman: An artist and a Voodoo priestess.
• Many other people from New Orleans also appear, sharing their stories.

Key Moments in the Film

Hexing a Hurricane shows several important and moving scenes. These scenes help viewers understand what happened in New Orleans.

Exploring Memorable Scenes

• Voodoo Ceremony for Protection: Members of La Source Ancienne Temple perform a Voodoo ceremony. They ask powerful spirits to protect New Orleans from dangerous hurricanes.
• Returning Home to Lakeview: Jackie and her fiancé Carl go back to their home in Lakeview. Their neighborhood was badly flooded. They see their devastated home for the first time after the storm.
• A Call to Action: Irvin Mayfield, a famous New Orleans musician, speaks from the French Quarter. He stands near the statue of jazz legend Louis Armstrong, which was unharmed. He encourages everyone to help rebuild the city.
• Chris Rose's Commentary: Columnist Chris Rose gives funny and honest comments. He talks about the local news and daily life after the storm.
• Harry Anderson's New Role: Actor Harry Anderson, known from TV shows like Night Court, changes his comedy act. He becomes a leader in his French Quarter nightclub. He helps people by turning his club into a "town hall."
• Broadcasters Reunite: Famous broadcasters Garland Robinette and Angela Hill talk together. They were once married and co-anchors. They share their personal experiences during the disaster in Jackson Square.
• Voodoo Priestess Explains: Sallie Ann Glassman explains her beliefs. She talks about why she trusted her protective ceremony. She also shares a possible message from the spirits about the disaster.
• A Parade for Remembrance: The Rebirth Brass Band performs in a parade. It is the 77th annual Original Prince of Whales club second line parade. They dedicate it to everyone lost in Hurricane Katrina.
• New Music Debuts: The film also features a song called Below Zero. It is a ballad by street musician "Willow" from the Willow Family Band.

Awards and Recognition

Hexing a Hurricane was recognized for its important story.

Film Nominations

• The film was nominated for "Best American Documentary" at the Rome International Film Festival.