

Movie spotlight
What We See
After experiencing a traumatic event in Igloolik (an Inuit hamlet in Foxe Basin, Qikiqtaaluk Region in Nunavut), Uyarak leaves her community and family in Nunavut to live in Montréal. When Covid-19 lockdowns close off the Canadian Arctic from the rest of the world, Uyarak is further separated from her closest friend, eldest sister, Saqpinak. This extreme situation blurs the lines of both the fictional lives of the sisters, and the non-fiction lives of the film’s directors, Lucy Tulugarjuk and Carol Kunnuk, who play the sisters.
Insights
Plot Summary
The film centers on a Black British man experiencing the everyday microaggressions and systemic racism within a corporate environment. Through a series of unsettling encounters, it explores the psychological toll of navigating a space where his identity is constantly questioned and marginalized. The narrative builds towards a moment of confrontation and a stark realization about the pervasive nature of prejudice.
Critical Reception
While "What We See" is a short film and may not have extensive critical reviews, it has been recognized for its powerful and direct portrayal of racial issues in the workplace. Audiences and festival programmers have lauded its ability to convey significant emotional weight and social commentary within its brief runtime, highlighting its relevance and impact.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its concise and impactful storytelling.
Commended for its unflinching look at contemporary racism.
Applauded for strong performances that convey complex emotions.
Google audience: As "What We See" is a short film primarily shown at festivals, there isn't a significant volume of user reviews available on platforms like Google. However, discussions surrounding its screenings tend to focus on its thought-provoking nature and its success in initiating conversations about race and workplace dynamics.
Awards & Accolades
Screened at various film festivals, including the BFI London Film Festival.
Fun Fact
The film was developed through the BFI Network, which supports emerging filmmakers in the UK.
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