When writer-director Julia Cortes began work on her latest short film, she was driven by more than just a creative vision. The story of Boyfighter, centered on a struggling street boxer trying to provide for his son, was written as a tribute to her late brother, who passed away a year and a half ago. What resulted is a moving portrait of sacrifice and emotional isolation, brought to life through a powerful team of Louisiana-based creatives.
The film, which made its world premiere on June 11 at the Tribeca Festival’s Spring Studios, was produced through the Rising Voices program in partnership with Hillman Grad, Indeed and 271 Films. Much of the film was shot in Mandeville and throughout the Greater New Orleans area, showcasing not just the region’s cinematic backdrop but also its deep well of behind-the-scenes talent. It stars Nicole Acosta, Michael Mando (Better Call Saul) and Chase Robin.
Indeed Rising Voices is a program created by Indeed in partnership with Lena Waithe’s production company, Hillman Grad Productions and 271 Films. It aims to discover, invest in and amplify stories created by Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) filmmakers. Lena Waithe, an Emmy Award-winning writer, creator and actor, is a key figure in the program, collaborating with Indeed to provide mentorship and resources to emerging filmmakers
Cortes assembled a largely local crew, many of whom made the journey to Tribeca to celebrate the film’s debut. Among the New Orleans-based artists in attendance were Michelle Harmon (production designer), Erin Foster (set decorator), Ashley Bunge (locations manager), and costume designer, Christine M. Hamilton, who has also worked on several independent and large budget projects in the region.
The full crew list reads like a roll call of Louisiana’s emerging film workforce: Bailey Domke (make-up department head), Lauren Spencer (make-up assistant), Ashley Wright (1st assistant director), Barbra Babbs, Shannon Parker, Josh Stephenson, and Jamal Dennis (all PAs), Charlie Nauman (1st AC), Trenton Mynatt (2nd AC/DIT), Bradley Martin (gaffer), Beau Morrison (best boy electric), Kareem Audain (key grip), Khary Justice (best boy grip), Emme Cole Lemke (art PA), Tyler Galpin (stunt coordinator), Victoria Owsley (script supervisor), Charlene Gates (studio teacher), Paul Fraser (set medic), Pedro Lucero (caterer) and David White (animal wrangler).
At the heart of the film is the story of a father, an impoverished fighter doing all he can to provide for his son, even as the emotional and physical weight of his choices begin to fracture him. Lead performers Chase Robin and Nicole Acosta joined Cortes and the crew at the premiere.
“A legacy of love is what connects us to our ancestors, to our lands, to each other,” Cortes said in a statement. “And I believe that love is what makes us invincible.”
That spirit of connection between family, culture and community reverberates through every frame of the film. With its roots deeply planted in Louisiana soil and its heart worn proudly on its sleeve, this project is not just a story on screen but a reflection of the people who made it.
