In 1894, the Canadian government established segregated boarding schools and forced indigenous children into them, in the words of one of the film’s opening text cards, “to get rid of the Indian problem.”
This dark cloud in history extended to the United States, where 973 American Indian, Alaska Native and Native Hawaiian children died at 417 federally-funded boarding schools, according to the second volume of The US Federal Indian Boarding School Initiative Investigative Report. Two of the schools, named St. Anthony’s Industrial School for Indians, were located in San Diego, near Mission Valley and Old Town.
“Sugarcane” opens Friday at San Diego’s Digital Gym Cinema.
People have been speaking up about the systemic injustices Native Americans have endured for decades, especially in 2021 after the discovery of unmarked graves near St. Joseph’s Mission, a boarding school near British Columbia, Canada, operated by the Catholic Church.
The latest powerful exploration of indigenous struggle and perseverance comes from Julian Brave NoiseCat and Emily Kassie, directors of a powerful new documentary, “Sugarcane.”
Whether it be through a shot that lingers longer than expected, subtle movement of the camera or a symbolic image that permeates the frame, each deliberate filmmaking choice made by NoiseCat and Kassie’s “Sugarcane” communicates deep meaning and insight.
Distributed by National Geographic Doc Films and premiering Aug. 16-22 at San Diego’s Digital Gym Cinema, the documentary has already garnered critical acclaim, including winning Sundance’s coveted Film Festival Grand Jury Directing Award. With its powerful message and grounded storytelling, it’s sure to extend its impact on general audiences.
“Sugarcane” follows residents of the Sugar Cane reservation in British Columbia as they mourn the systematic assault, abuse and killing of Native American students in boarding schools that began nearly 130 years ago. Today, the effects of those heinous acts still reverberate throughout the community. Much of the film focuses on William Lake Nation’s investigation of St. Joseph’s Mission and the community’s response to these developments.
In addition to co-directing the film, NoiseCat plays a key role in front of the camera. One of the most fascinating elements of the documentary is his relationship with his father, an Indian boarding school survivor who reckons with his trauma in differing ways. NoiseCat’s desire to learn more about his family and his place in its history becomes the heart of the film in many ways.
NoiseCat and Kassie explore the stories of the countless victims and survivors with unflinching honesty and empathy. Each testimonial and interview sheds light on not just the historical impact of these killings, but also how it echoes through each person’s family tree.
Prominent interviewees — including Williams Lake First Nation Chief Willie Sellars and former chief Rick Gilbert, show the different ways people approach injustice and strife. The film is dedicated to Gilbert, as he passed away before wide distribution of the film.
The filmmakers behind “Sugarcane” use a combination of current-day footage, archival video and audio to create a harrowing, quietly powerful film. The use of handheld camera footage, as well, was an inspired choice.
On a technical level, “Sugarcane” is equally impressive. The distinct mood of the film can be attributed to the deft eye of Christopher LaMarca as director of photography and the stark, dusty soundtrack contributed by the film’s composer, Mali Obomsawin. Feelings of unease, discomfort and even terror are complemented by the aesthetic choices made by the film’s crew.
The documentary also finds power through its more introspective and even unassuming moments — whether it be a humorous interaction between Gilbert and his wife or a stunning ceremony displaying indigenous culture. While “Sugarcane” tackles incredibly heavy source material, the filmmakers take time to demonstrate the remarkable bravery and persistence of the survivors.
Some of the best documentaries have the power to provoke change and drive conversations around the topic. There’s something for everyone to learn and take away from “Sugarcane.” And it is undoubtedly one of 2024’s essential watches.
‘Sugarcane’
When: Opens Friday and runs through Thursday, Aug. 22
Where: Digital Gym Cinema, 100 Market St., Second floor, San Diego
Running time: 107 minutes
3-1/2 stars (out of 4)
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