Louisiana-based initiative #CreateLouisiana, has declared the recipient of its 2023 French Culture Film Grant. The chosen project, a documentary short film titled Footwork, directed by Drake LeBlanc and produced by Rachel Nederveld, was selected through a competitive process.

On June 26  , four finalists pitched their projects and fielded questions from the full grant review committee, composed of representatives from the partnering organizations. As the winner, Footwork will receive a $25,000 cash award and a premiere at the 2024 French Film Festival in partnership with the New Orleans Film Society (scheduled for March 2024) in New Orleans. The documentary short film explores the Creole trail riding culture, highlighting the relationship between Louisiana’s inhabitants and horse while portraying a bond between horse and rider that reflects cultural preservation.

In its seventh year, the French Culture Film Grant collaborates with #CreateLouisiana and TV5MONDE USA, the American French language entertainment channel. Additional funding is provided by Louisiana Economic Development’s Entertainment Development Fund. The grant aims to assist local filmmakers and support films spotlighting Louisiana’s francophone culture.

TV5MONDE USA CEO Patrice Courtaban remarked, “TV5MONDE USA is committed to the Louisiana community and showcasing unique stories about local Francophone culture. We celebrate Footwork as it joins other impactful films that resonate not only within the community but also in the broader North American French-speaking community.”

Drake LeBlanc expressed enthusiasm about being named the grant recipient, stating, “I’m excited to have support in making this documentary that will bring Louisiana’s culture to the rest of the world.”

To learn more about the French Culture Film Grant, visit #CreateLouisiana’s official website.