Directed by Sky Hopinka, Powwow People allows the community tradition to tell its own story. Using a verite-style of filmmaking, Hopinka reveals the rhythms and relationships that anchor contemporary Native powwow culture. Using voiceovers sparingly, the beauty of the film stems from the cameras ability to simply hold still and celebrate the performers in all their glory. In doing so, every dance is honoured with a mixture of reverence and joy. In most cases, Hopinka allows the sights, sounds and atmosphere speak for itself without need for narration.
As a result, part of the beauty of Powwow is the way that it rejoices within the community itself as it buzzes with participation. Children run and play while adults set-up their wares. Announcers have fun on the microphones. The smell of food is almost palpable. For these people, this more than merely an event that they’ve attended. It’s an opportunity to reconnect with one another. Here, powwows are shown to be spaces where everyone is accepted. For example, the film highlights the voice of a youth in the midst of gender transition. Although they initially feared being rejected by their community, they instead experienced a sense of welcome that extended to all. (“Everyone can come out and be in the circle,” we’re told.)
In this spirit, it’s worth noting that the film also speaks to the tension between the keeping of traditions and changing with the times. In Powwow, Hopinka honours the customs of old, reminding the viewer of the importance of honouring the past. However, at the same time, the film also welcomes change. We hear the voices of younger people who want their culture to reflect the world that they live in and how they yearn to push forward. Yet, Hopinka never draws a line between the two sides. In Powwow People, there’s a real sense that these two worldviews need not be held in conflict but, rather, in tension with one another. One need not cancel out the other, especially if they elevate one another.
But it’s that spirit of inclusion that also makes Powwow People such a special experience for everyone involved. Here, everyone is truly welcome and Hopinka brings that to the forefront.
Powwow People is playing at TIFF ’25. For more information, click here.
