Lowland Kids tells the story of Howard and Juliette, the last teenagers on Isle de Jean Charles, a sinking island on the coast of Louisiana.
For the two siblings, this place has always been home. After losing their parents, their uncle has raised them on this island, passing on his love and appreciation for the land.
But the island is running out of time. Due to rising sea levels and hurricanes, the Brunet family finds themselves forced to leave Isle de Jean Charles, and saying goodbye is not easy. The future can’t possibly be brighter than the life they have here. Or could it?
Director's Statement
Lowland Kids began as an adventure. A trip down to Isle de Jean Charles to experience this magical place before it’s gone. I had heard many stories about this sinking island and America’s first climate refugees - many of which pitted the islanders against each other; Those who want to stay vs. those who want to go. But when our small crew arrived on Isle de Jean Charles we discovered a different truth: No one here wants to leave. Every family on the island would spend the rest of their life here, if they had the choice.
Upon meeting island natives Howard and Juliette, their adventurous spirit would remind me of my brother and I growing up; Two siblings taking on the world together. And always looking out for each other. But in Howard and Juliette’s case, their journey has been heartbreaking in ways mine never was.
While Lowland Kids is a film about climate change, it is also a film about the power of family. The fate of the Brunets is soon becoming a reality for many, and I hope this film can contribute to the climate change discussion by shedding a light on American people who are forced to leave the one place that nowhere can replace; Home.
- Sandra Winther
The Team
Sandra Winther / Director
William Crouse / Executive Producer
Todd Martin / Cinematographer
Graham Chisholm / Editor - Arcade Edit
Sofie Borup / Colorist - Company 3