Kudzu

Story

Synopsis

Kudzu, or Pueraria Thunbergiana, is a vine threatening to take over large portions of the Southern landscape. Imported from Japan by the Departement of Agriculture in the 30's for erosion control, its spreading growth has become a problem of menacing proportions. Kudzu is an off-beat, witty, informative documentary about the vine that is devouring the South. Featuring the Kudzu Queen, the Kudzu rock band, a cast of real-life characters and an appearance by former President Jimmy Carter, it illustrates how Southern cultural traditions have quickly grown up around a botanical pest. The eminent American poet and novelist James Dickey ("Deliverance"), recites three stanzas of his poem, "Kudzu."

Director

Marjie Short

Language

English

Country

United States of America

Release date

1 October 1977

Ensemble

Cast

• 

  James Dickey

  Self/Poet

• 

  Jimmy Carter

  Self

• 

  Alice Walker

  Self/Author

• Nancy Loewenstein

  Self/Plant Expert

• Edith Edwards

  Self/Kudzu Queen