HANDGAMES IN THE DELTA, 27min,. Canada
Directed by Taylor J. Smith
A group of Indigenous Handgames players based in the Yukon travelled to four separate communities in the Delta region of the Northwest Territories (Inuvik, Aklavik, Fort McPherson and Tsiigehtchic) teaching Handgames to citizens. In addition to the history & culture being taught, selflessness and humility were major lessons in this ancient game. In the end, each community submitted a team to a Delta-wide tournament in Inuvik.

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?
I had met Wildfred Johnston at an event earlier in the year where he was teaching Handgames. I found it to be one of the best parts of the event that brought a lot of happiness into the environment. When he approached me and asked me to create a film fully encompassing a large-scale tour, I was all-in.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
This film was about 12 months in the making.

3. How would you describe your film in two words!?
Just Deadly

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
The biggest obstacle was obtaining all of the information other media submissions from outside sources.

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
When I watched the feedback video I was very moved. Mostly because I finally saw the impact this film could have for those living in the circumpolar north.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
In 2018 I was working on a TV show that airs on APTN (Aboriginal Peoples Television Network) and through that experience, I saw the importance of sharing these stories. Since then, cultural preservation and youth empowerment have become the two pillars of Arrowsmith Productions.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
I would have to say the Lord of the Rings (extended obviously). It still holds up. Can't argue with all those Oscars.

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?
A sub-category for Indigenous themed films would be nice to see.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?
FilmFreeway has made my life so much easier. It's nice to do all your festival research from one resource.

10. What is your favorite meal?
My favourite meal is schnitzel, from my German heritage.

11. What is next for you? A new film?
I'm currently in school to become a registered massage therapist. I will be in school until the fall of 2024 so for now, filmmaking will take a back seat however it will continue to be a big part of my life, post-grad. I can't wait to be able to return to filmmaking soon!