Movie spotlight
Where the Spirit Lives
In 1937, a young First Nations (Canadian native) girl named Ashtecome is kidnapped along with several other children from a village as part of a deliberate Canadian policy to force First Nations children to abandon their culture in order to be assimilated into white Canadian/British society. She is taken to a boarding school where she is forced to adopt Western Euro-centric ways and learn English, often under brutal treatment. Only one sympathetic white teacher who is more and more repelled by this bigotry offers her any help from among the staff. That, with her force of will, Ashtecome (forced to take the name Amelia) is determined to hold on to her identity and that of her siblings, who were also abducted.
Insights
Plot Summary
Set in 1930s Canada, this film tells the story of a young First Nations girl named Spirit who is taken from her family and sent to a residential school. Despite the harsh conditions and the loss of her cultural identity, Spirit finds strength in her memories and the teachings of her grandmother. She eventually escapes the oppressive environment and seeks to reunite with her family and reclaim her heritage.
Critical Reception
The film was generally well-received for its sensitive portrayal of a difficult subject matter and its powerful performances. It was particularly praised for bringing attention to the experiences of Indigenous children in residential schools. While some critics noted its earnestness, the overall sentiment was one of appreciation for its emotional impact and important message.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its emotional resonance and important subject matter.
Applauded for strong performances, particularly from the young lead.
Seen as a poignant, albeit sometimes heavy, exploration of cultural loss and resilience.
Google audience: Information regarding specific Google user reviews and their sentiment is not readily available.
Awards & Accolades
Won the Golden Reel Award for Best Sound Editing in 1991. Nominated for a Gemini Award for Best Dramatic Mini-Series or TV Movie in 1991.
Fun Fact
The film was shot on location in the Six Nations of the Grand River First Nation territory in Ontario, Canada, adding to its authenticity.
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