“Our chiefs imagined the future we are living in today. They walked through storms so that we could walk with purpose, planting seeds of strength and vision along the way. At Weengushk International Film Festival, we honour their legacies through story — because stories are the roots that keep our people standing tall. This year we gather to celebrate the dreamers, the protectors, the Legacy Makers who carried the weight of generations on their shoulders so the path ahead could be lit with hope. Their courage shaped our present, and their spirits will guide us as we shape the future.” - Dr. Shirley Cheechoo, C.M., Artistic Director and Founder
WIFF is proud to present the award-winning documentary feature film Free Leonard Petlier directed by acclaimed filmmakers Jesse Short Bull and David France as the opening night film on Friday, October 3 at Four Directions Complex with reception and Q&A with the filmmakers to follow.
The Weengushk International Film Festival will also include the WIFF Cultural Event on Saturday October 4th at Weengushk Film Institute. This inaugural WIFF Cultural Event will include a gallery of Indigenous artists and artisans as well as beading, language, music, ribbon skirt making and traditional cooking workshops. Film workshops include producing, music and cinematography.
The WIFF Gala and Awards Event on Sunday October 5 recognizes the accomplishments of extraordinary individuals that have contributed to enhancing indigenous and creative voices in many genres. A separate release will announce the award winners.
'The Great Salish Heist; An Indigenous archaeologist from the Moquohat Nation hatches a plan to steal back his community's sacred artifacts from a museum before they are shipped to the UK. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt25403418/?ref_=mv_closeThe FREE WIFF Virtual Festival from October 3 – 10 is designed to reach many communities that do not have access to the in person screenings and breadth of amazing features, shorts and documentaries reflecting Indigenous stories and voices. Titles include: the award winning feature SEEDS directed by Kaniehtiio Horn; THE GREAT SALISH HEIST directed by Darrell Denis; short drama VESS directed by Kahstoserakwathe Paulette Moore, starring Glen Gould; documentary feature FOR LOVE directed by Matt Smiley; and over 30 amazing titles. Virtual screenings are provided complimentary by WIFF at www.weengushkfilmfestival.ca/watch-online.
VESS directed by Kahstoserakwathe Paulette Moore was filmed on Six Nations. A Six Nations carpenter/philosopher transforms his grief as he builds a home for a young family returning to their territory. The group forges new relationships filled with humour, Mohawk language, and the dynamic strength they all draw from their land and community.
The Weengushk International Film Festival was founded by Dr. Shirley Cheechoo C.M., a distinguished filmmaker, artist, and advocate for Indigenous rights. Dr. Cheechoo’s vision for WIFF was to create a space where Indigenous voices could be heard and celebrated through the powerful medium of film. Her dedication to storytelling and cultural preservation has been the driving force behind the festival’s success and impact. WIFF aims to highlight stories of courage, human rights, and environmental stewardship, offering a platform for Indigenous filmmakers to share their unique perspectives. Through powerful storytelling, cultural exchanges, workshops and panels, and live performances, the festival fosters understanding, celebrates resilience, and promotes the rich tapestry of Indigenous culture.
Weengushk International Film Festival
In person events: October 3 - 5, 2025
Four Directions Complex
1300 HWY 540 Aundeck Omni Kaning First Nation, ON
Tickets and Passes for in person and online festival available at: www.weengushkfilmfestival.ca
Media Contact: Executive Director Phyllis Ellis
647 801 9141
exectivedirector@weengushkfilmfestival.ca | 
No comments:
Post a Comment