We’ve just posted a new article on the website that addresses the critical history of Studio D, Canada’s groundbreaking feminist film-production unit. Read: “The Impact of Studio D – how it changed the place of women in film in Canada.” In addition to the new feature article, we have added a number of new films to the website (linked through the National Film Board of Canada), including some produced by Studio D. While you’re self-isolating or otherwise at home, here are some options for Canadian feminist films.
Minqon Minqon Wosqotomn Elsonwagon (Shirley Bear Reclaiming the Balance of Power)
Catherine Martin (1990)
“Decades before the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, Shirley Bear was defying repressive colonial narratives with inspiring imagery of Indigenous womanhood. Catherine Martin profiles the Wolastoqiyik/Malecite artist known as Minqon Minqon (Rainbow Rainbow).”
Motherland–Tales of Wonder
Helene Klodawsky (1994)
“This feature documentary casts a curious and critical eye at North American discourses about motherhood since the mid-20th century. Through conversations with seven mothers, a fascinating selection of archival footage and stills from the 1950s, as well as some very candid and funny home movies, this film offers new ways of thinking about what it means to be a good mom.”
The Housewife
Cathy Bennett (1975)
“A study, in film animation, of a day in the life of a housewife, described without words, with a minimum of detail but with a perception all the more pertinent because of the simplicity of presentation. The film makes no judgments. It simply states the case, but serves as an apt starting point for any discussion of the role of women and the value of their work.
I’ll Find a Way
Beverly Shaffer (1977)
“This Oscar-winning documentary presents Nadia, a 9-year-old girl with spina bifida. Her dream is to attend a regular school, even though she knows other kids will tease her. Wise for her young age, Nadia simply decides that she’ll ‘find a way to deal with it.’ Despite having to overcome many obstacles, Nadia’s got spunk and makes it clear she’s not looking for sympathy.”
Flamenco at 5:15
Cynthia Scott (1977)
“This Oscar-winning short film is an impressionistic record of a flamenco dance class given to senior students of the National Ballet School of Canada by two great teachers from Spain, Susana and Antonio Robledo. The film shows the beautiful young North American dancers—inspired by the flamenco rhythms and mesmerized by Susana’s extraordinary energy.”