Documentary Critiques Natchez's Romanticized Plantation History

New film examines the tension between celebrating the Old South and confronting its brutal legacy of slavery.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A new documentary about the city of Natchez, Mississippi examines the competing forces of nostalgic celebration of the antebellum Old South and the refusal to sanitize the brutal history of enslavement in the region.

Why it matters

Natchez has long been known for its romanticized portrayal of pre-Civil War plantation life, hosting popular events like antebellum-themed weddings. This documentary challenges that historical fantasy by confronting the realities of slavery and its lasting impacts.

The details

The documentary, directed by Suzannah, explores how Natchez has "swallowed a master narrative about the old south" that glosses over the horrors of slavery. It aims to examine the tension between the city's embrace of its antebellum aesthetic and the growing movement to reckon with the region's dark history.

  • The documentary was released in February 2026.

The players

Suzannah

The director of the documentary examining Natchez's romanticized portrayal of the antebellum South.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

This documentary highlights the ongoing struggle many Southern communities face in reconciling their romanticized historical narratives with the brutal realities of slavery and systemic racism. It underscores the importance of confronting the past, even when it is uncomfortable, in order to move towards a more truthful and just understanding of history.