Home / Arts and Entertainment / Kentucky 'Cornbread Mafia' Documentary Premieres at SXSW
Kentucky 'Cornbread Mafia' Documentary Premieres at SXSW
5 Feb
Summary
- A documentary about a marijuana syndicate will premiere at SXSW.
- The film tells the true story of Kentucky farmers who created a drug syndicate.
- Members of the group and the director will attend the film festival.
An infamous chapter of Kentucky history is set to make its world premiere on the big screen at the 2026 SXSW Film & TV Festival in Austin, Texas. The documentary film, titled "Cornbread Mafia," directed by Louisville native Evan Mascagni and produced by Unbridled Films' CEO Merry-Kay Poe, will debut at the renowned festival running from March 12-18, 2026.
The "Cornbread Mafia" documentary delves into the true story of a group of Kentucky farmers, descendants of tobacco growers, moonshiners, and bootleggers, who successfully established the largest domestic marijuana syndicate in U.S. history. The narrative promises a blend of true crime and cartoonish elements, highlighting community, the war on drugs, and the unique humor and heart of the individuals involved.
The syndicate was led by the charismatic Johnny Boone, known as the "Godfather of Grass," who passed away in 2024. Several living members, including Joe Keith Bickett, Jimmy Bickett, and Bobby Joe Shewmaker, are slated to attend the SXSW premiere and participate in a panel discussion. Following its festival run, the filmmakers plan to secure a streaming service deal and explore the possibility of a scripted series based on the extraordinary story.
