VIFF 2024 Talks host Abenaki filmmaker Alanis Obomsawin in conversation with Métis artist Amanda Strong, October 5

Another highlight of the series on the same date features Shōgun VFX supervisor Michael Cliett

Alanis Obomsawin (left) and Amanda Strong.

THERE ARE TWO VIFF 2024 Talks left to catch this year.

Across Generations with Alanis Obomsawin & Amanda Strong on October 5 at 2 pm at Vancity Theatre will showcase Abenaki filmmaker Obomsawin in conversation with Métis artist Strong.

The talk will feature a sneak peek of Obomsawin’s latest short film, “My Friend the Green Horse”. Often feeling lost and lonely, the young Alanis found companionship and comfort in the animal world. Filled with the spirit of happy childhood memories, the joyful release offers a rare glimpse into the early life of one of the world’s greatest documentary directors through a mix of live-action footage and stop-motion animation.

Strong’s animated short “Inkwo: For When the Starving Return” tells the story of Dove, a young, mysterious, gender-shifting warrior, who discovers the benefits and burdens of their inkwo (medicine) to defend against an army of hungry, terrifying monsters.

The two filmmakers will discuss their artistic practices, the importance of intergenerational connection, and storytelling, as well as the beauty and challenges of creating films for youth. Youth are encouraged to attend the VIFF Talks.

Also taking place on October 5 as part of VIFF Talks, at 6 pm at the Annex, is Designing the World of Shōgun with VFX Supervisor Michael Cliett.

The Vancouver-based visual-effects expert and his team earned an Emmy for their work transforming B.C. into feudal Japan for Shōgun, which won a record-setting 18 such awards in a single year.

Cliett will give a VFX masterclass on the creation of 17th-century Japan with all of its accurate historical elements and comprehensive details.

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Gail Johnson

Gail Johnson is cofounder of Stir. She is a Vancouver-based journalist who has earned local and national nominations and awards for her work. She is a certified Gladue Report writer via Indigenous Perspectives Society in partnership with Royal Roads University and is a member of a judging panel for top Vancouver restaurants.

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