Eric Curt Peters

Brief

Documentary "Reunion: A Journey Towards Truth and Reconciliation"

​

Producer: Unreel Creative
Starring: Nancy
Client: Calm Air
Director: Amanda Camara
1st AD: Trevor Johnsen
Behind The Scenes: Eric Peters
Director of Photography: Eric Curt Peters
Camera Operator: Trevor Johnsen
Editor/Colourist: Eric Curt Peters
Location: Rankin Inlet
Video Editing: Winnipeg

​

Overview:

"Reunion: A Journey Towards Truth and Reconciliation" is a poignant documentary that traces the emotional and transformative journey of Nancy, a woman who was taken from her Indigenous family during childhood and raised in a non-Indigenous environment. This film explores her quest for identity, cultural reconnection, and personal healing.

Objective:

The documentary aims to illuminate the personal impacts of forced separation on Indigenous individuals, promoting awareness and dialogue around the themes of truth and reconciliation. Through Nancy's story, the film seeks to foster empathy and inspire a broader societal commitment to recognizing and rectifying historical injustices faced by Indigenous communities.

Key Themes:

• Forced Separation and Loss of Culture: The emotional and cultural ramifications of Nancy being removed from her Indigenous roots.

• Search for Identity: Nancy's lifelong struggle to reconnect with her heritage and understand her true identity.

• Reconciliation and Healing: The pivotal role of her reunion with her biological mother in her journey towards healing.

Storyline:

1. Introduction of Nancy: Background on her childhood, the circumstances of her separation, and her life with an adoptive family.

2. Impact of Disconnection: Exploration of the psychological and emotional effects of growing up detached from her Indigenous culture.

3. Drive for Reconnection: Nancy's efforts to learn about her origins and her rights as an Indigenous person.

4. Calm Air’s Role: The partnership with Calm Air that facilitates Nancy’s journey back to her birthplace and the arrangements for her to meet her biological mother.

5. The Reunion: The emotional first meeting with her mother, capturing their interactions, the challenges they face, and the beginning of Nancy's healing process.

6. Reflection and Future: Nancy reflects on her experiences and discusses her hopes for the future, both personally and for broader societal change.

Visual Style:

• Cinematography: Raw and intimate, using close-ups and handheld shots to convey emotion and realism.

• Lighting: Natural lighting to maintain authenticity and enhance the documentary's genuine feel.

• Color Palette: Earth tones and soft hues to reflect the natural landscapes of Rankin Inlet and resonate with themes of return and reconnection.

Production Details:

• Filming: Extensive on-location shooting in Rankin Inlet, capturing Nancy’s interactions, local scenery, and community life.

• Interviews: Conversations with Nancy, her adoptive family, community members, and experts on Indigenous culture and reconciliation.

• Archival Footage: Use of historical footage and photographs to provide context and background to Nancy’s story.

Post-Production:

• Editing: Combining narrative elements smoothly to ensure the story flows logically and emotionally.

• Color Grading: Enhancing visual warmth and depth to support the documentary’s tone.

• Sound Design: Incorporating traditional Indigenous music and natural soundscapes to deepen the viewer's immersion into the story.

Distribution and Outreach:

• Screenings: Film festivals, community centers, educational institutions, and online platforms.

• Discussion Panels: Organize events with filmmakers, Indigenous leaders, and social workers to discuss the film’s themes and broader social issues.

• Educational Materials: Develop accompanying resources to educate audiences about the history and ongoing effects of policies leading to forced separations.

Conclusion:

"Reunion: A Journey Towards Truth and Reconciliation" is an evocative documentary that not only tells a deeply personal story but also engages with crucial societal issues. By documenting Nancy’s journey, the film will contribute significantly to the discourse on cultural identity, heritage, and reconciliation, aiming to inspire change and healing within and beyond Indigenous communities.