Watch Tchoupitoulas

Tchoupitoulas is a mesmerizing documentary film that takes viewers on a wild and whimsical journey through the streets of New Orleans. Directed by Bill and Turner Ross, the film showcases the city's vibrant nightlife, unique subcultures and its deep connection to music, dance and storytelling. The film begins with three young brothers, Kentrell, Bryan and William Zanders, taking a ferry across the Mississippi River to New Orleans. The boys are initially hesitant, but as they immerse themselves in the city's pulsating energy, they are swept away by its mysterious allure.

Throughout the course of the film, the brothers traverse a tapestry of different neighborhoods and landscapes, from the bustling nightlife of Bourbon Street to hidden back alleys filled with graffiti and street performers. Along the way, they encounter a rich cast of characters, ranging from fortune tellers and bandleaders to local eccentrics and everyday residents.

One of the most captivating aspects of Tchoupitoulas is its striking visuals. The Ross brothers utilize a mix of handheld cameras, slow-motion cinematography and moody lighting to create a lush, dreamlike atmosphere that perfectly captures the spirit of New Orleans. Scenes of dancers twirling beneath neon lights or musicians jamming in dimly lit clubs are especially breathtaking.

While the film is primarily a visual feast, it also features a stirring musical score that underscores the city's deep musical roots. From raucous brass bands to soulful jazz, the soundtrack is a celebration of the many different styles of music that have thrived in New Orleans over the years.

Though Tchoupitoulas is essentially a non-narrative film, it does have a clear emotional arc as the Zanders brothers explore the city's wondrous landscape. At the beginning of the film, they are wide-eyed and curious, taking in all the sights and sounds of the city with a sense of childlike wonder. As they journey deeper into the night, however, they begin to confront some of the darker and seedier sides of New Orleans, from the gritty reality of homelessness to the uneasy tension of police encounters.

Despite these challenges, however, the brothers never lose their sense of joie de vivre, and the film itself is a testament to the resilience and vitality of the city they explore. Tchoupitoulas is a remarkable feat of filmmaking, one that captures the heart and soul of New Orleans in all its grit and glory. Whether you're a longtime fan of the city or simply looking for an immersive cinematic experience, this film is not to be missed.

Tchoupitoulas is a 2012 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 20 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.4 and a MetaScore of 81.