The 8th annual Weengushk International Film Festival (WIFF) wrapped up with a star-studded gala, announcing the 2024 award recipients. Held on Manitoulin Island in Canada, WIFF honors Indigenous storytellers and cultural leaders. Weengushk Film Festival Celebrates Indigenous Excellence: 2024 Award Winners Announced
A Night of Recognition
The gala featured a keynote address by Lakota poet Cliff Cardinal and celebrated achievements across various categories. Cree actor and filmmaker Cody Lightning took home Best Actor for his role in “Hey, Viktor!”, a mockumentary exploring the challenges and humor within Indigenous culture.
Highlighting Indigenous Stories
Lightning commented on the film’s unique blend, stating, “There’s a darkness…but also a laughter, a sense of humour… I want to shine light on the darkness of the dysfunctional humour we have as Indigenous people.”
Award-Winning Films
The prestigious Best Director award went to Métis filmmaker Marie Clements for “Bones of Crows.” This powerful film follows a Cree matriarch’s fight for justice after surviving the residential school system and enduring hardships.
Special Recognition
Lily Gladstone, a Piegan Blackfeet and Nez Perce woman, received the Special Jury Distinction Award for her exceptional contributions to Indigenous cinema.
A Festival Rooted in Community
Led by Dr. Shirley Cheechoo CM, WIFF is a cornerstone for Indigenous filmmakers. The festival showcased 57 films, workshops, and musical performances, fostering dialogue and celebrating both established and emerging talents.
2024 Weengushk International Film Festival Award Winners
- Best Director: Marie Clements, Bones of Crows
- Best Documentary Feature Film: Sugarcane, Directors Julian Brave NoiseCat and Emily Kassie
- Best Screenplay: Marie Clements, Bones of Crows
- Best Narrative Feature Film: Hey, Viktor!, Director Cody Lightning
- Best Actor: Cody Lightning, Hey, Viktor!
- (Additional Award Categories Listed Here)
The complete list of winners includes Merit Awards, Cultural Enrichment Awards, and Tributes to icons like Tom Jackson and Lorne Cardinal.
Celebrating Indigenous Cinema
Weengushk International Film Festival stands as a testament to the power of Indigenous storytelling. By recognizing exceptional films and filmmakers, WIFF paves the way for a brighter future in Indigenous cinema.
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