MEDIA RELEASE: 12 July 2018 – R00140
A strong lineup of films from around the world will highlight a new Indigenous-focused event this weekend on Manitoulin Island.
The Weengushk International Film Festival (WIFF), a joint venture between Weengushk Film Institute (WFI) and Brock University, was created to highlight Indigenous talent including actors, writers, directors and filmmakers from around the world.
It was created by WFI founder and Brock Chancellor Shirley Cheechoo to explore Indigenous topics while breaking down stereotypes and racial barriers. WIFF creates an important venue where emerging talents and varying perspectives can be exposed to audiences, and where people can become educated about First Nations, Métis and Inuit issues in Canada and around the world.
“I am proud that our people have a new platform to showcase their work and for all cultures to come together and share in this wonderful opportunity celebrating community and film,” said Cheechoo, an acclaimed filmmaker, writer, director and artist who has dedicated herself to highlighting and promoting Indigenous voices through film and bringing cultures together in the north.
WIFF opens Friday, July 13 and will wrap up with a closing gala Sunday, July 15 at Aundeck Omni Kaning’s Four Directions Complex on Manitoulin Island.
A wide range of films will be screened from emerging and experienced filmmakers, including feature, documentary and student films. These short student films include works from graduates of the Brock Certificate in Film Production and Television Production that are offered at Weengushk.
The internationally acclaimed film Wind River opens the festival. The lineup also includes the award-winning documentary Rumble and closes with the powerful Canadian film Indian Horse.
In addition to Cheechoo and Brock University President Gervan Fearon being in attendance, VIPs include Brenda Lintinger, a Tunica-Buloxi Council member, whose tribe helped produce Wind River, acclaimed filmmaker Jennifer Podemski, filmmaker and actor Nathaniel Arcand and Juno award winning singer/songwriter Crystal Shawanda.
For more information, visit the WIFF website at weengushkfilmfestival.ca
WIFF Media contacts:
Ellie Poirier, 705-377-6011, epoirier@weengushk.com
Gloria Panacheese, 705.923.8988, gpanacheese@weengushk.com
For more information or for assistance arranging interviews:
* Dan Dakin, Media Relations Officer, Brock University ddakin@brocku.ca, 905-688-5550 x5353 or 905-347-1970
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