EDFF 2025: Top 5 Films Revealed

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For the second time around, it was our privilege to exhibit the Top 5 contenders from the most recent Louisiana Film Prize at the El Dorado Film Festival. The Louisiana Film Prize, a competition and festival based in Shreveport, has been thriving since its establishment in 2012. It comes as no shock that this year’s lineup showcased a diverse array of compelling narratives from a multitude of captivating filmmakers.

Here are a few impressions out of the five films included in the block…

As a fan, I can’t wait to see writer-director Michael Cusumano’s latest work, the sharp and amusing comedy “Napoleonic Code”. In this film, I find myself as Kat, a New Yorker, journeying to Louisiana to engage with my estranged brother Mason (Josh Talley). As we delve into our late father’s affairs, Mason springs an unexpected surprise on me. Yet, he’s unaware that I harbor a significant secret of my own. The talented Charity Schubert and Josh Talley convincingly portray their complex characters, skillfully navigating potentially tricky subject matter. Together, they help Cusumano craft a clever and quick-witted two-hander that injects a tantalizingly toxic element into sibling rivalries.

VERDICT – 4/5

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In the movie “Toots,” written and directed by Chris Alan Evans, who himself is a caregiver to his mother, Logan Sledge (Logan) takes on the role of full-time caregiver for his ailing mother Pam Dougherty due to her Parkinson’s disease. Although he feels guilty about his frustration, Logan discovers unexpected joy in this challenging situation. Cinematographer Alexander Jeffery beautifully captures a wealth of emotion through his delicate lensing, and both Sledge and Dougherty deliver powerful performances. The film is a poignant drama with moments of humor, but it’s the deep human connection that truly strikes a chord.

VERDICT – 4.5/5

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Erica Michelle Singleton excels in both acting and directing roles in the unflinchingly genuine and authentic production, “Three Sessions.” In this compelling drama, Singleton is responsible for writing, producing, editing, and portraying Elaine, a character whose marriage with Paul (Jamad Mays) faces imminent collapse. As they reach a critical juncture, the couple undergoes individual counseling sessions led by therapist Connie (played brilliantly by Moriah L. Hicks). Throughout the film, Singleton’s work resonates deeply with honesty and understanding, ensuring that every scene rings true, making Elaine and Paul’s marital turmoil a heart-wrenching and captivating experience for viewers.

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2025-02-28 18:56