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Circle of the Sun

1960 29 min
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This short documentary by Colin Low is an invitation to a gathering of the Káínaa of Alberta - as the Sun Dance is captured on film for the first time. The film shows how the theme of the circle reflects the bands' connection to wildlife and also addresses the predicament of the young generation, those who have relinquished their ties with their own culture but have not yet found a firm place in a changing world.

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Circle of the Sun

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This short documentary by Colin Low is an invitation to a gathering of the Káínaa of Alberta - as the Sun Dance is captured on film for the first time. The film shows how the theme of the circle reflects the bands' connection to wildlife and also addresses the predicament of the young generation, those who have relinquished their ties with their own culture but have not yet found a firm place in a changing world.

Indigenous Peoples in Canada (First Nations and Métis) Dance Religion, Beliefs and Ethics All subjects
  • director
    Colin Low
  • script
    Colin Low
  • producer
    Tom Daly
  • editing
    Tom Daly
  • commentary
    Stanley Jackson
  • camera
    John Spotton
    Dalton Muir
  • sound
    George Croll
    Ron Alexander
    Erik Nielsen
  • sound editing
    Kathleen Shannon
  • consultant
    Jim Whitebull
  • narrator
    Pete Standing Alone
  • music
    Eldon Rathburn

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Education

Ages 16 to 17
School subjects
Indigenous Studies - History/Politics Indigenous Studies - Identity/Society Indigenous Studies - Issues and Contemporary Challenges Media Education - Documentary Film
Teachers of media, filmmaking, and Native Studies can initiate projects exploring: representation of First Nations in old documentaries; the contrast between the film and the present Blood Indian culture; and the effects of film conventions such as close-ups, music, and narration. Extend research into today's First Nations - locations, rituals, religion, and lifestyles. Students can research Native dances and their origins, and present their knowledge to the class through performance.
Circle of the Sun
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Home licence (worldwide); Classroom licence (Canada only)

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Institutional licence

The institutional price includes the rights to screen this film in institutional settings and in free public screenings.

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