Local filmmakers are working on an in-depth documentary of the late Ann Richards that they hope could have a political impact.
The film is tentatively titled "Bubbette: Ann Richards' Texas," and not only does it chronicle the political arc of Richards' life, but also the lessons we can learn when her style is applied to today's political climate.
Richards was the 45th governor of Texas. But she was also a lot more than that. And in a new film, which is still under production, two Houston filmmakers are hoping to draw parallels to what Richards was and what they believe the country needs.
"We hope that this film will expose that we need more people like her, that it's hard for somebody like her to fit in today, because if you do a lot, your campaign contributions for your re-election can be in peril," said Keith Patterson with Newcoast Entertainment.
Richards was a trailblazer -- a one of kind, larger than life, celebrity. And yet her story has never before been told in film.
"The more and more we found out about her, the more we fell in love with her and knew that we needed to tell her story," said Jack Lofton with Newcoast Entertainment.
Lofton and Patterson are the driving force behind the project, which they hope to sell at Sundance next month and premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival in the spring.
"She wasn't a career politician like you see nowadays. She was a housewife. She started getting involved at the lower levels and then caught fire," Lofton said.
"This film must be made," Curry Glassell said.
Glassell is one of the film's producers. She is helping to fund the film, which she says could do big things.
"What I hope this film will do is inspire, educate and empower our electorate, and for me, that's how I'd like to make a difference," Glassell said.
The filmmakers have traveled the country interviewing friends of the late governor, news heavyweights and political icons. It's a one-of-a-kind film about a one-of-a-kind Texan.
The filmmakers travel to Nashville next. There, they'll interview close Richards' friend Dolly Parton. They'll then preview a short cut of the film at the Athena Film Festival in New York ahead of Tribeca.
