The snow theatre welcomes us again! The screens that were silenced by the pandemic are revived when the world’s northernmost and the only indigenous film festival in the EU is arranged for the 25th time. We will be able to watch over fifty fine films, some of them also online.
From the start, Skábmagovat has built bridges to other indigenous nations. Film is an excellent instrument for changing people’s views of indigenous nations but also the views nations have of themselves. Every year, new languages and nations join the film family. This year we will hear Aimara, Nakoda, Ojibwe and Korébajü, for example, spoken in the films in addition to the main languages.
The anniversary year spotlights strong women both as directors and main characters. A clear majority of the feature films are directed by women – something that has been typical of Sámi cinema, for example, for a long time. Elle-Máijá Tailfeathers, Danis Goulet and Darlene Naponse from Canada, Suvi West and Liselotte Wajstedt from Sápmi and Leah Purcell from Australia are great examples of the elite that Skábmagovat now spotlights – but without forgetting the film-makers of short films (and men). The programme also looks at the traumatic experiences that have led to truth and reconciliation processes in many countries from the Nordic countries to Australia.
It is time to thank the supporters and volunteers of Skábmagovat for making it possible for us to realise our winter magic again and to warmly welcome our visitors to Inari!
Jorma Lehtola
Artistic Director
