Who Were the Ones?

About This Movie

This short film, woven together by Indigenous filmmakers at the NFB, feels like a warm embrace. The animation is simple yet evocative, really enhancing the heartfelt song by Willie Dunn, performed by Bob Charlie. It's not just a song but a narrative of welcome, community, and identity, capturing a moment in time with its unique storytelling approach. John Fadden's illustrations flow seamlessly with the music, creating a space that feels both personal and reflective. The pacing is gentle, inviting you to sit back and soak in the atmosphere, making it distinctively intimate compared to other animated works of its time.

This film is somewhat elusive in the collector's market, with few copies surfacing over the years. Its unique blend of animation and music makes it a fascinating study of Indigenous culture during a pivotal era. While not widely available, it holds a certain charm and historical value that appeals to collectors interested in Indigenous narratives and experimental animation. The film's original format has not seen extensive re-releases, adding to its scarcity.