Story of the Soul

A young Indigenous woman, haunted by the tragic death of her father, discovers a supernatural entity that offers her a path to vengeance. As she delves deeper into this dark power, she finds herself increasingly consumed by it, blurring the lines between justice and destruction. The film explores themes of grief, trauma, and the cyclical nature of violence within a community.

Story of the Soul received a mixed to positive reception from critics, who praised its ambition, atmosphere, and strong performances, particularly from its lead actresses. Some found the pacing uneven and the narrative occasionally convoluted, but many acknowledged its potent exploration of Indigenous themes and the supernatural horror genre.

• Praised for its atmospheric tension and striking visuals.

• Commended for its powerful portrayal of grief and trauma within an Indigenous context.

• Some critics noted the narrative could be more tightly structured.

Google audience: Audience reviews generally highlight the film's unique blend of supernatural horror and social commentary, appreciating its Indigenous storytelling. Many found it to be a haunting and thought-provoking experience, though a segment of viewers felt the plot was sometimes difficult to follow.

Nominated for Best Motion Picture and Best Director at the 2020 Canadian Screen Awards. Also screened at the Toronto International Film Festival.

Director Jeff Barnaby, who tragically passed away in 2022, was known for his visually distinctive and critically acclaimed films that often explored Indigenous identity and contemporary issues.