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Michelle Derosier, Canada, 2009, 47 minutes
In 2007, filmmaker Michelle Derosier released her dramatic film Seeking Bimaadiziiwin, a fictionalized but realistic depiction of the struggles of First Nations youth dealing with depression, suicide and racism. After auditioning hundreds of young people, Michelle assembled a stunning cast of first-time actors from around Northwestern Ontario. Intended to spark discussion about these critical issues, Seeking Bimaadiziiwin went on to win numerous awards including Best Live Action Short Film at the 32nd Annual American Indian Film Festival in San Francisco.
After working with the young “actors” on the film, Derosier decided she wanted to work with them further; this time to make a documentary about their real lives. That is how she came to make The Healing Lens, a film about the healing power of art and culture, and the resiliency of First Nations youth.
During the filming of Seeking Bimaadiziiwin, it was discovered that each of these talented youth actually shared deeply personal connections to the script and had been touched by many of the same issues they were acting out in the film. As they played these roles, they began to find their own strength and take charge of their own paths toward the future.
Brittany Angeconeb, only 15 when she acted in the first film, is an athlete and North American Indigenous Games medalist and was awarded the Keewaywin Award for Youth Leadership and Community Involvement in 2007. Brent Achneepineskum has become a traditional drummer and has travelled extensively with the ‘Little Bear Singers’. He has plans to further his education and become a social worker. Candace Twance is currently attending Lakehead University in the Visual Art Program. She is primarily a painter, and her works have been exhibited in numerous settings. Krysten Flett plans to pursue a career in nursing.
By listening to their moving stories and witnessing their powerful transformations, we are inspired by the strength and possibility of young people to heal themselves and their communities. Youth like Brittany, Brent, Candace and Krysten can show us all the way.
Filmmaker in attendance
Classified for younger audiences. No membership required.
Director’s biography
Michelle Derosier is co-owner of Thunderstone Pictures and works as a producer, director, writer, and actor. She is originally from Migisi Sahgaigan (Eagle Lake First Nation) in Northwestern Ontario. As a social worker, Derosier has 10 years of front line experience working in mental health with First Nations people. She has delivered workshops on innovations in group therapy for youth, using art as a healing tool, parenting, and violence in Aboriginal communities. She has also published on the topic of Historical and Social Influences on Violence in Aboriginal Communities. Derosier’s interests expanded to include the use film as a vehicle for healing and empowerment.
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