A film by Rev. Ceci Duke’s husband David will broadcast on GPB next Thursday night, January 12, at 8:30 p.m. Here’s a brief description of “Remembering Miz Jones: a True Story of the Mountains”:
Gencie Jones lived alone in a “holler” in the north Georgia mountains. She had no electricity or indoor plumbing, and she carried all her water from a springhead in the woods.
The Gum Log Valley folk told my father not to go on Miz Jones’ place unless he wanted to get shot; Dad headed straight for the holler and talked his way past the gun. Gencie was filled with stories, and she told them in the dialect of her Appalachian ancestors. Dad couldn’t wait to introduce her to his sons.
I was 10 years old – and the experience changed my life.
Remembering Miz Jones is a combination of nature film, art piece, and dramatic narrative: a non-fictional short story for television. It presents Gencie’s life through the eyes of a city boy, filtered gently through the consciousness of a man in his 60s. It takes you into the Appalachian woods at every season and in every weather. The wilderness itself becomes a major character as Gencie’s life broadens into a universal human story.
REVIEWS
“Remembering Miz Jones” is a hymn of praise and thanksgiving for the Georgia mountains – and a tone poem to the mountain people.
John Sibley, Chairman, The Georgia Conservancy
A remarkable piece of cinema, told with literary art and dramatic unity. It unfolds like a short story, adding depth and richness as it gains momentum.
Tom Key, Executive Artistic Director, Theatrical Outfit
One of the most beautiful films I have ever seen.
Craig Cornwell, Programming Director, KET TV, Louisville, KY
“Remembering Miz Jones” moves beyond narrative and into the realm of poetry.
Nancy Hoddinott, Sr. Director of Marketing and Communications, Tennessee Performing Arts Center
It’s a lovely paean to the Appalachian Mountains, both its natural and human landscape.
Dr. John Burrison, Professor of English Literature and Folklore, Georgia State University
A lovely cinematic vision!
Harry Musselwhite, Executive Director, Rome International Film Festival
“Miz Jones” is just the kind of film that public television is proud to air.
William Overall, Programming Director, Georgia Public Broadcasting