Indigenous cinema is poised to make a significant global impact at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) this year, with a carefully curated selection of nine Canadian and international features, documentaries, and series. This impressive lineup is attracting discerning audiences and a host of buyers eager to acquire unique titles with universal appeal.
"These are the kinds of films we’ve been longing to see," Jason Ryle, Toronto’s international programmer of global Indigenous cinema, remarked. Ryle, along with Kelly Boutsalis, who programs Canadian Indigenous titles, joined TIFF’s programming team in 2022. "Filmmakers are now interacting with the international industry on a high level," Ryle continued. "We’re still combating notions that Indigenous film is a genre, but the diversity of tones and storytelling approaches is coming through."
This burgeoning diversity is evident in the work of Eva Thomas, a multi-hyphenate filmmaker and dual citizen of Canada and the Walpole Island First Nation. Thomas is making her mark at the festival with two projects: the Discovery title "Aberdeen," a turbulent tale of family stability that she co-wrote and co-directed with Ojibwe filmmaker Ryan Cooper, and the darkly comedic "Seeds," which she executive produced. "Seeds," a rez eco-thriller, is directed by Kaniehtiio Horn, a fellow Indigenous filmmaker who is known for her role in the Canadian sitcom "Letterkenny." Both films explore themes of intergenerational trauma, cultural identity, and the resilience of Indigenous communities.
Thomas’s journey to becoming a filmmaker is an inspiring one. After training as an actor in Los Angeles, she felt frustrated by the limited opportunities for Indigenous actors. "I thought, ‘This isn’t going to change until someone else writes something different,’" Thomas said, reflecting on her experiences. That realization led her to delve into writing and producing, eventually returning to Canada where the Indigenous screen sector was experiencing a period of significant growth. Thomas went on to run ImagineNative Institute’s feature screenwriting lab, which supports Canadian and international projects, and has contributed to a number of successful features, including "Night Raiders."
"I became a writer because I couldn’t find work as an actor, then became a producer because many writers I knew had a project ready for market but could not find a producer," she explained. Thomas’s dedication to storytelling and her passion for amplifying Indigenous voices have made her a prominent figure in the Canadian film industry. This fall, she will lens her first solo feature film, focusing on the experiences of two Indigenous women on the run from the law.
Indigenous Voices on the Big Screen
The Toronto International Film Festival is not only a showcase for emerging talent like Thomas but also a platform for established Indigenous filmmakers. The festival features a diverse range of films, including "The Mountain," the feature directorial debut of Rachel House, a Māori filmmaker known for her work in Taika Waititi’s projects. "The Mountain" is a gentle comic adventure that follows three young people who are on the run from their families. House’s film is a reworking of an original script by Tom Furniss and highlights the importance of understanding and respecting the natural world.
A Deeper Look at the Stories
Sydney Freeland, a Navajo filmmaker, brings "Rez Ball" to TIFF. Her film explores the passion and energy surrounding high school basketball in the Navajo Nation. The narrative, inspired by articles written by journalist Michael Powell, centers on a basketball team’s journey to rebuild and reclaim their identity. Freeland collaborated with Sterlin Harjo, the creator of the critically acclaimed television series "Reservation Dogs," and LeBron James’ Springhill Company to bring this unique story to life.
Impact of Indigenous Storytelling
The growing interest in Indigenous screen storytelling can be attributed to a number of factors, as Freeland points out: "Standing Rock brought Indigenous issues back to the forefront of mainstream America, and [Taika Waititi] directing ‘Thor: Ragnarok’ was huge for us. And then consider peak TV, where studios and companies are looking for stories from non-traditional places." The success of series like "Rutherford Falls" and "Reservation Dogs" has further fueled this trend, demonstrating the power of authentic and culturally relevant stories.
A Celebration of Indigenous Cinema
The Toronto International Film Festival is a testament to the remarkable talent and diversity of Indigenous filmmaking. The festival’s programming reflects a commitment to amplifying Indigenous voices and showcasing the rich tapestry of experiences and perspectives within these communities. The films at TIFF are not only entertaining but also offer valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs of Indigenous people around the world.
The Impact of a Single Film: "Aberdeen"
"Aberdeen" is a testament to the power of Indigenous voices and the need to address the complex realities faced by Indigenous communities. The film centers on Aberdeen Spence, an Indigenous woman who is struggling to rebuild her life after being displaced by climate change. She finds herself navigating the bureaucratic complexities of the government system, battling addiction, and grappling with the intergenerational trauma that has plagued her family for generations. The film’s impact lies in its raw honesty, its unflinching portrayal of the challenges faced by Indigenous people, and its call for greater understanding and empathy.
Beyond the Festival
The Toronto International Film Festival is a launchpad for many films, but it is only the beginning of the journey for these stories. The films that are showcased at TIFF will continue to resonate with audiences around the world, fostering dialogue, promoting understanding, and inspiring change. As Indigenous cinema continues to evolve and gain recognition, it will play an increasingly vital role in shaping the future of storytelling, offering unique perspectives and fostering a deeper understanding of the human experience.
