AKI is an exquisite meditation on the relationship between community and the earth. Following the activities of Atikameksheng Anishnawbek as they live the seasons, we are transported by laughter, awe, and love. The land is a tricky character and the water that is her lifeblood speaks to us of life’s rhythms and wisdom. In AKI, the only words spoken are in Anishnawbemowin in honour of our loss and our revival of the language of our ancestors. AKI stuns with unforgettable cinematography matched by an ingenious soundtrack by Juno Award–nominated cellist Cris Derksen and multi-instrumentalist Julian Cote. The beaver just might steal the show.

Darlene Naponse is an Anishinaabe writer, director, and video artist from Atikameksheng Anishnawbek. Her previous films have premiered at the Sundance Film Festival, Toronto International Film Festival, and the imagineNATIVE Film + Media Arts Festival. AKI is her fifth feature film. Darlene’s work is placed within community and the Natural World.

*Opening Night Screening tickets and Opening Night Party tickets are sold separately. Admission to one event does not include access to the other.