We are only a few days away from February, which means we’re a few days away from Black History Month. Like many networks and streamers, Hulu will have an abundance of celebratory programming, but today they have provided The Playlist with an exclusive trailer of their newest documentary, “Sacred Soil: The Piney Woods School Story.” The film is the directorial feature debut of J.J. Anderson and a co-production with Andscape, the Black-led multimedia Disney and ESPN division.
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According to Hulu and Andsacpe, “Sacred Soil” occurs against “the culturally historical backdrop of one of America’s oldest Black boarding schools. This film amplifies the journeys of several Piney Woods School students and staff members, providing a never-before-seen window into the ever-evolving, complex layers of the school and its students. Vividly, yet beautifully ‘Sacred Soil: The Piney Woods School Story ‘captures the emotional, physical, and mental tolls required to be young, Black, and educated in America by honoring the students’ perspectives of themselves and their school.”
“Sacred Soil” will debut on Hulu on February 23. The film’s executive producers are Andscape’s Kelley L. Carter, Anderson, Marc Jordan, and Jason Aidoo. It was produced by State of the Art’s Mecia Hollar p.g.a and Laura Avila Tacsan, p.g.a.
In a statement from Hulu and Andscape, director J.J. Anderson noted, “I am honored to be partnering with Andscape to bring ‘Sacred Soil: The Piney Woods School Story’ to audiences. From the illuminating experiences shared by the historical institution’s young voices to the devoted labor put forth by crew members— this film is a heartfelt testimony of love, community, and culture. We are overjoyed to share it with the world.”
Dr. Will Crossley, president of The Piney Woods School, added, “We are deeply grateful to J.J. Anderson and Andscape for bringing the Piney Woods story to audiences in such a powerful way. For 115 years, our work has consistently pursued a mission to prepare future leaders by empowering learners – head, hands, and heart. The core of this place has always embodied an ethos of love, strong work ethic, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. As an alumnus, I know firsthand the power of resilience that Piney Woods embodies. Thanks to this amazing production team, audiences now will get a glimpse into the indomitable spirit that makes these hallowed grounds so uniquely remarkable.”
You can watch the preview embedded in this post.