Disney’s Andscape has announced details of a brand-new documentary film called “Sacred Soil: The Piney Woods School Story”, which is set 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.

Check out the trailer below:

The film will be the directorial feature debut of J.J. Anderson and is a co-production with Andscape, which is Disney and ESPN’s Black-led division.  The film’s director J.J. Anderson, said in a statement:

“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 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”

The film will also get a spotlight screening at the 32nd Pan African Film Festival on February 10th 2024, in Los Angeles. 

“Sacred Soil: The Piney Woods School Story” is coming to Hulu and Hulu On Disney+ on February 23rd 2024. 

No international Disney+ release details have been announced yet, but as with other new documentaries from Andscape, we should expect to see it eventually released as a Star Original outside the US.

Are you looking forward to watching “Sacred Soil: The Piney Woods School Story”?  Let us know on social media!

Roger Palmer

Roger has been a Disney fan since he was a kid and this interest has grown over the years. He has visited Disney Parks around the globe and has a vast collection of Disney movies and collectibles. He is the owner of What's On Disney Plus & DisKingdom. Email: Roger@WhatsOnDisneyPlus.com Twitter: Twitter.com/RogPalmerUK Facebook: Facebook.com/rogpalmeruk

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