
Storyville in Cinema
The historic Red-Light District of New Orleans has made appearances in several important films and televisions shows over the years. Explore the cinematic landscape of Storyville starring on the silver screen!
Interview with the Vampire
AMC's Interview with the Vampire Season 1 brings Anne Rice's iconic tale to life with a fresh perspective. This adaptation delves into the complex relationship between Louis de Pointe du Lac and the charismatic vampire Lestat, exploring themes of love, immortality, and the struggles of existence. With stunning visuals and compelling performances, the series captivates both fans of the original novel and newcomers alike, inviting viewers into a dark and seductive world. In Season 1 of the series, Storyville, New Orleans' historic red-light district, serves as a lush and evocative backdrop, reflecting the opulence, decadence, and moral complexities of the vampire characters' lives.
Louis Malle's
Pretty Baby
Pretty Baby (1978) is a provocative and controversial drama set in Storyville, New Orleans during the early 20th century. The film centers on the story of a young girl, Violet, played by a young Brooke Shields, who is growing up in a brothel. It explores themes of innocence, sexuality, and exploitation, as Violet's coming-of-age is intertwined with the complex relationships she forms with the women around her and Bellocq, a photographer who becomes fascinated with her. Known for its bold exploration of taboo subjects, Pretty Baby portrays an accurate Storyville brothel as a backdrop and challenges societal norms about the boundaries of art and morality.
New Orleans
(1947)
New Orleans (1947) is a musical drama that pays tribute to the rich jazz culture of its titular city. Set in the vibrant nightlife of New Orleans, the film follows a nightclub owner (Arturo de Cordova) as he tries to elevate jazz from its roots in the city’s clubs to mainstream acceptance. Featuring legendary performances by Louis Armstrong and Billie Holiday, New Orleans blends a fictional story with electrifying musical sequences, showcasing the evolution of jazz and its cultural impact. The film is a nostalgic celebration of the genre’s pioneers and a snapshot of a transformative era in American music and depicts the closing down of Storyville, the red-light district.


Cinematic Courtesans: Films About the Storyville-Style Life


Lulu White – The Bordello Queen of Storyville


A Visit to Storyville, New Orleans' Most Famous Red-Light District

