World Premiere Film Screening - Opening Night at the New Orleans Film Festival: 

VICTORY: THE IRMA THOMAS STORY 

Irma Thomas, a trailblazing figure in New Orleans music, revisits her gospel roots in a recording session that spans genres and generations.

At 83 years old, Thomas brings together a diverse group of musicians in New Orleans to create a gospel album that speaks to her life’s journey, legacy, and enduring faith. The film captures intimate moments from the recording process with a remarkable ensemble of collaborators: Brazilian legend Jorge Ben, Christian music superstar Lauren Daigle, indie folk singer Valerie June, and pillars of the New Orleans music culture Cyril and Ivan Neville, Charlie Gabriel, Trombone Shorty, and Big Chiefs Shaka Zulu and David Montana.

Beyond the studio Thomas reflects on her incredible life story, from her early days as a teenage mother of four, trying to break into the music business in the Segregation era, to becoming a beloved musical matriarch and the center of a large blended family with her husband and manager of 50 years, Emile Jackson. A portrait of a legendary artist: it is a testament to resilience, love, and the enduring power of music.

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ABOUT THE DIRECTOR: 

A musician and filmmaker, Ben Chace makes music full of images and films rich with sound. He has worked in Jamaica, Cuba, New Orleans, Nashville and his work is inspired by his curiosity for history and the threads of culture which link disparate people across time and space. He was raised in Providence, Rhode Island and now lives in Paris.

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7:00pm Doors | 7:30pm Screening

Talk-Back immediately following the screenings

+ Opening Night Afterparty to follow at Gallier Hall

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DETAILS & PASSES: | https://neworleansfilmsociety.org/lineup-events/

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