Film Overview

"New River," is a musical documentary that follows the rich history of the Campbell and Brooks families. The film will broadcast on Philadelphia's public television WHYY’s Y Arts Comcast Cable Channel (date TBA). The movie documents the lives of such noted bluegrass artists as Ola Belle Reed (Zane & Hugh's Aunt), Uncle Guy Brooks of The Red Fox Chasers, and others. The film was an official entry in the 2007 Festival de Cannes Short Film Program.

Aunt Ola Belle created such bluegrass hits as “High on a Mountain,” which earned her a gold record, and “I’ve Endured.” Uncle Guy Brooks was credited with writing the first trucker song, “Wreck on the Mountain Road.” Uncle Hub wrote “Don’t You Call My Name” which has been recorded by several noted bluegrass artists.

Brothers Zane and Hugh have been active in the music industry as well. Hugh’s song “Shape of a Tear” was nominated for 2003 Song of the Year by the International Bluegrass Music Association. Zane’s “Post-Mortem Bar” was in the film “Longtime Companion,” which was the first American film about HIV/AIDS. Zane’s music was also the soundtrack for the film, “Bittercress,” which has been in several film festivals (including the 2007 Cannes Film Festival Short Film Program) and on cable television.