Orpheus Star

Douglas Privett is a young musician who returns to the small mid-western town of his childhood to see Ezrela Mae Privett, the ailing grandmother who'd raised him, a Baptist preacher battling demons of her own. Despite childhood memories of emotional trauma, Douglas agrees to stay in town and help her with therapy. Douglas searches for Cal, his only childhood friend and secret crush, but only finds Cal's younger sister, Jaylene. While staring at a starry night sky, Douglas recalls a positive memory o his grandmother and has a chance encounter with Dora, a wise homeless woman.

Directed by Donn Swaby, Orpheus Star leans on a strong ensemble — Isaiah Anthony, Margaret Avery, Lou Beatty Jr. — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about drama titles of 2020.