Banished
Synopsis
Tootie Montana was considered chief among chiefs of the Mardi Gras Indians, a tradition unique to New Orleans with roots in traditional African culture. This film offers an extended, inside look at a proud man who wants nothing more than to be the “prettiest” Big Chief of all. Lisa Katzman’s film examines the tensions between New Orleans’s black and white Carnival celebrations, between competing Indian tribes, and even between Tootie and the son who would succeed him. And, yes, the new suit is stunning.
