The Montreal International Documentary Festival, now in its 28th edition, is currently showcasing a diverse lineup of nearly 140 films, featuring talents from both local and international filmmakers. Among the highlighted directors is Sinakson Trevor Solway, whose compelling 77-minute documentary “Siksikakowan: The Blackfoot Man” provides a rare and intimate look into Indigenous masculinity.
The film, set in the picturesque prairies of the Siksika Nation in Alberta, was a labor of love for Solway, spanning over four years of filming and 90 days of meticulous editing. Embracing a ‘cinéma vérité’ approach, the documentary offers an unobtrusive yet immersive exploration of the complex truths and realities of people’s lives.
Describing the men he grew up observing as multifaceted individuals often misrepresented in mainstream media, Solway aimed to showcase a more nuanced portrayal of Indigenous masculinity that includes traits like sensitivity, care, and courage alongside toughness.
Prior to premiering the film at theatres and festivals, Solway screened it for the Siksika community in a moving private viewing, providing a rare opportunity for reflection and representation for the audience.
Anne-Claire Lefaivre, from the National Film Board, praised the film for its originality and the delicate way it tackled themes of masculinity through an Indigenous lens, resonating with audiences and critics alike.
Following a successful premiere at Hot Docs Cinema and positive reception, “Siksikakowan: The Blackfoot Man” is set to be screened twice during this year’s RIDM festival, showcasing its quality and beauty to a wider audience.
Looking ahead, Solway is already planning his next project inspired by the Blackfoot ancestral ceremonial dance, aiming to shed light on the values and teachings of the Prairie Chicken Dance in a future documentary.
