A Cree film chronicling the signing of the Paix des Braves Agreement – aptly titled One More River – made its French language debut at the Cinematheque Quebecoise February 19.
Produced by Rezolution Pictures, a Cree company, the documentary takes viewers on a journey through the eyes of two trappers, a Cree activist and people representing the overall state of Eeyou Istchee. It culminates with the historic signing of the $3.5 billion agreement and Ted Moses shaking hands with then-Premier Bernard Landry.
It was well received by the audience of about 100 people, roughly half of whom were Cree. Some of the people came to see themselves on the big screen.
The thought-provoking documentary focuses on the speed with which the agreement was announced, voted on and signed – all in a short, four-month span. It illustrates the divide between the proponents of the project – the Grand Council of the Cree – and those who vocally opposed it.
It also talks about the diminishing land base and lack of economic opportunities for Cree youth, who currently make up about 60 per cent of the population.
For those who missed it, you can check out parts 1 and 2 on APTN March 26 and April 2, both at 7 pm.
