Louis Black is a pioneering film writer, publisher, and cultural organizer whose passion for movies and storytelling has shaped Austin’s creative scene and beyond. Growing up in Teaneck, NJ, Louis fell in love with film and comic books early—roaming New York theaters with friends like Leonard Maltin at age 12—and carried that enthusiasm through college, where he ran a film series while completing an English degree. After moving to Texas for graduate studies in film, he co-founded the Austin Chronicle in 1981, committed to creating an independent paper that paid its staff well and prioritized authentic coverage of music, film, and local culture. In 1987, Louis and collaborators launched South by Southwest, initially a modest music gathering that quickly grew into a globally influential festival encompassing film and interactive media. Over decades, he has written extensively on cinema, produced books and essays on filmmakers, and supported the Austin Film Society and other initiatives that empower artists. Beyond publishing and festivals, Louis remains a connector—spotlighting new voices, curating screenings, and championing creative risk. Whether hosting conversations on film history, mentoring young writers, or simply hunting for overlooked gems in a dusty theater, he brings infectious curiosity and a belief that shared stories can transform communities.