LUTV Productions to premiere Charlton-Pollard documentary

Lamar University Television Productions is pleased to present the premiere of their documentary, “They Will Talk About Us: The Charlton-Pollard Story,” which chronicles the origins of one of the oldest Black neighborhoods in Beaumont, Texas. The film screening will be held at the Jefferson Theatre on Friday, Feb. 18, at 6 p.m. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.

In this 32-minute film, former residents of the neighborhood, members of the community and local historian Judith Lindsey of the Center for History and Culture of Southeast Texas and the Upper Gulf Coast, document the people and the legacy of the Charlton-Pollard neighborhood.

“Working on ‘They Will Talk About Us: The Charlton-Pollard Story’ taught me a lot more about Beaumont. It was so interesting for me to hear everyone's stories, and it made me want to find a time machine to transport back to that time and see it for myself. Professionally, I felt more comfortable being behind the camera, and I learned more about being on set that I can apply today,” said Delicia Rocha, LU student in the Department of Communication & Media.

Production opportunities such as “They Will Talk About Us: The Charlton-Pollard Story” allows students to participate in hands-on learning and practical work experiences. Throughout the years, LUTV Productions has received recognitions and awards from entities such as the Press Club of Southeast Texas, the Houston Press Club’s Lone Star Awards and film festivals across the country.   

Thanks to a contribution by ExxonMobil, LUTV was able to bring this story to life, as well as the research and writing for the book available to guests, “Charlton-Pollard: The Story of a Neighborhood,” through the LU Center for History and Culture of Southeast Texas and the Upper Gulf Coast. 

The premiere of “They Will Talk About Us: The Charlton-Pollard Story” is open to the public. Admission is $6 for adults and $4 for children. After the screening of the documentary, Beaumont Events’ Classic Movie Night will feature a showing of “The Wiz.” For more information, please call Lamar University Television at (409) 880-8038.