Alberta Premiere of film Three Feathers by Richard Van Camp

Alberta Premiere of film Three Feathers by Richard Van Camp

In celebration of Freedom to Read Week, join us for the Alberta premiere of Three Feathers, the feature length film adaptation of Richard Van Camp's novel by the same name. Presented in partnership with Wordfest and the Calgary Public Library, this event includes an 85 minute film screening, followed by an audience Q&A and book signing with Richard Van Camp. Cash bar available.

About the Film

Set in the spectacular Northwest Territories, the film explores the power of grace and restorative justice in one Northern community as it follows the life journey of three young Indigenous men: Flinch, Bryce and Rupert.

During the course of a robbery, three young indigenous men, cause great injury to a respected Elder. The community is enraged and demand justice, but the justice given is through a traditional sentencing circle. The youth are sent to live on the land for nine months with two Dene Elders. At first the young men rebel against the support of the Elders but, with the land as their teacher, they soon come to rely on the wisdom and guidance of the Elders.

The Elders guide the youth, sharing with them the wondrous teachings of the land and helping them connect with their ancestral language, cultural traditions and aboriginal values rooted in respect, kindness and sharing.

Bryce, Rupert and Flinch learn to become responsible and capable young men and, after their nine months on the land, are now intent on righting the harm they have caused their community. But how will the community react to their return? Are they ready to forgive? This story goes on to explore the power and grace of restorative justice and the cultural legacy that can empower future generations.

Filmed in Fort Smith, NT, where the novel was inspired, the story itself takes place over nine months and features many scenes of the young men struggling to survive in the bush in all four seasons. Each season offers its own challenge and its own lessons – from the responsibility of maintaining a fire during a heavy spring rainstorm to the customs and prayers offered to a bison that has given its life in a fall hunt.

Nearly all cast and crew are Northerners, and the film is produced in four different languages - English, South Slavey, Chıpewyan and Bush Cree.