#CreateLouisiana is proud to announce the upcoming screening of Built on Zydeco, the 2025 recipient of the French Culture Film Grant. This feature-length, Creole-directed documentary celebrates the artists, legacy, and cultural impact of Zydeco, creating a powerful cultural moment that bridges cinema and live performance while highlighting the enduring connections between Louisiana and the global Francophone community.
Co-directed by Milton Arceneaux and Dustin Cravins and produced by Robert Chevalier, the film features renowned Zydeco musicians Keith Frank and Terrance Simien, among many others who continue to shape and sustain this vibrant musical tradition.
“Through the French Culture Film Grant, #CreateLouisiana has proudly supported filmmakers whose work celebrates Franco-Louisiana culture and heritage,” said Executive Director Julie Bordelon. “This impact is made possible through the support of our dedicated grant partners, whose investment ensures these stories are developed, produced, and shared. As we enter our eighth year of partnership with the New Orleans French Film Festival, we are especially proud of this sustained collaboration, which has provided a respected platform to showcase these important works. This milestone reflects a deep and growing commitment to elevating local voices, preserving cultural identity, and connecting Louisiana storytellers with broader, more diverse audiences.”
“Built on Zydeco calls attention to the creative impact of the Creole Zydeco music community and will educate the broader audience of Francophiles during its run at the New Orleans French Film Festival,” said TV5MONDE USA CEO Patrice Courtaban. “The #CreateLouisiana French Culture Film Grant alongside TV5MONDE USA are proud to serve as a launchpad for the community voices from every segment of culture that makes up the state of Louisiana.”
“We are honored to have Built on Zydeco included in the New Orleans French Film Festival,” said co-director Milton Arceneaux. “To screen a Creole-directed film that centers Louisiana French, Kouri Vini, and the artists who sustain this culture feels both full circle and necessary. It affirms that these stories belong in Francophone spaces—not as footnotes, but as living, evolving contributions to global French culture.”
Built on Zydeco will screen as part of the New Orleans French Film Festival on Friday, March 20, at 6:15 PM at the Prytania Theater.
The #CreateLouisiana French Culture Film Grant is supported by TV5MONDE USA, Cox Communications, Deep South Studios, Louisiana Economic Development, and the Council for the Development of French in Louisiana (CODOFIL). This funding opportunity champions indigenous filmmaking talent and celebrates Louisiana’s rich cultural diversity by annually supporting a new film that showcases Francophone culture and artistry.
The 2026 French Culture Film Grant cycle is now open. For more intimation, please visit CreateLouisiana.com.
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