2018 Dawson City International Short Film Festival Program DCISFF_2018_PROGRAM_web | Page 21

FIRST EYES Thirza Cuthand Is an Indian Within the Meaning of the Indian Act Thirza Cuthand, Plains Cree/Scottish, 8 m, experimental As a light-skinned Cree woman, Thirza Cuthand takes us on a deeply personal journey through images of blood ties and land ties. She contemplates her interactions with racism, mixed-race identity and the threat of rejection from other Indigenous people, while making a searing commentary on historical trauma and ongoing survival. LeLum’ (Home) Asia Youngman, Cree/Iroquois/Carrier/Métis, 9 m, documentary Lelum’ (the Hul’qumi’num word for “home”) portrays the strength and beauty of the land from the perspectives of Indigenous youth. Stunning aerial shots of British Columbia landscapes are complemented with messages that speak to our inherent responsibility to protect and show respect for our home. Snow Nivi Pedersen (Inuit), Greenland, 7 m, documentary Shovelling snow in the capital of Greenland is a big part of everyday winter life. Three Nuuk residents share their reflections – and frustrations – about this seemingly never-ending task. The Tao of Snow Shovelling! Shaman Echo Henoche (Nunatsiavut Inuk) 5 m, animation Based on a polar bear legend, Shaman recounts the story of a polar bear that’s transformed into an iconic mountain in the community of Nain, Labrador. Three Thousand Asinnajaq, Inuk, 14 m, documentary Artist Asinnajaq throws a creative net into the National Film Board of Canada’s audiovisual archive, weaving historic footage of the Inuit into a stunningly original animation. In 14 minutes of luminescent cinema, she recasts the past, present and future of the Inuit in a surprising new light. 19