We left the Bloor Hot Docs Cinema quiet, tempering a wave of emotion. The Opening Gala Screening of The People of the Kattawapiskak River has rendered me speechless, brimming with sadness, anger, fear and lastly: hope.
This latest documentary by the brilliant filmaker Alanis Obomsawin is not something I can delve deeply into right now, not at the after party where Bear Witness of a Tribe Called Red lays down the evenings sonic foundation.
This is not the place. There is community here, celebrating in this evenings launch of the festival. The power of our voices and stories being heard. Legendary artists, activists, leaders and visionary story-tellers.
I am no film buff. I am a mother, a woman – who has this burgeoning passion for film. With an even greater passion to hear our stories, to share them with my children. It inspires a hope for justice in me, for our people. I’m going to come back to this in a day or two, with a clear mind and refreshed heart. This is a film that every Canadian should see. I want to tell you why.
For now, I’ll close pictorial style, for all of you at home who couldn’t join us tonight…
Sold Out
Tom Perlmutter of The National Film Board of Canada
Community Members of Attawaspikat & Charlie Angus (NDP)
Charlie Angus...Our True Friend in Parliament (never thought I'd say those words...)
Embrace: Filmaker Alanis Obomsawin
All photos by Melissa McCauley
Tonight unleashes 3 days of revolutionary story-telling and the vibe right now is electric. I’ll be back a bit later with some more pictures of the party and perhaps even a little viddy or two.
