UPSTAIRS INFERNO
Directed & Produced by Robert L. Camina Narrated by New Orleans' own New York Times best selling author, Christopher Rice // On June 24, 1973, an arsonist set fire to the Up Stairs Lounge, a gay bar located on the edge of the French Quarter in New Orleans, LA. The result was the largest gay mass murder in U.S. history. Despite the staggering historical significance, few people know about the tragedy. Thirty-two people were killed and some bodies were never identified. One-third of the New Orleans chapter of the Metropolitan Community Church were killed in the blaze, including two clergy. No one was ever charged with the crime. The tragedy did not stop at the loss of lives. There were also the delayed injuries: lost jobs, fear, public ridicule and severed families. The devastation was compounded by the homophobic reactions and utter lack of concern by the general public, government and religious leaders. The fire permanently altered lives and was the root of many lifelong struggles. UPSTAIRS INFERNO is poised to be the most comprehensive and authoritative film about the fire and its aftermath. However, UPSTAIRS INFERNO isn't simply a stagnant exposition of facts. UPSTAIRS INFERNO brings humanity to the headlines by shining a light on the very painful effect the tragedy had on survivors, witnesses and loved ones. UPSTAIRS INFERNO is different than any other project the public has ever seen about the fire! UPSTAIRS INFERNO reveals facts audiences have never heard and it uncovers long lost artifacts, interviews and archival footage few people have ever seen. // 96 min // Learn more about the film at www.UpstairsInferno.com
