Synopsis

Ross McElwee’s 2003 documentary, *Bright Leaves*, explores his family's long-standing connection to the tobacco industry. “Bright Leaf” designates a specific strain of tobacco, and also served as the title of a 1949 novel and subsequent 1950 film, both depicting the conflict between rival tobacco magnates. According to McElwee family lore, the struggle portrayed in the film mirrors a historical conflict between McElwee’s great-grandfather and James Duke, the founder of Duke University.