Aboriginal Films for Aboriginal Audiences

See photos and videos from 2006-2007 Tour

Starting in 2006 Isuma developed the Indigenous Film Network (IFN), an initiative to expand feature film distribution by bringing aboriginal films through high-definition video projections to over 200 remote Inuit, First Nations, and other indigenous communities across Canada and internationally. In its second phase starting beginning of 2007, IFN will install permanent high-definition projectors in selected communities and deliver films regularly by internet video downloads. IFN will harness emerging technology to establish a permanent indigenous film sector in some of the world’s most under-served regions.

Isuma Distribution International is the first distributor to address regional and racial inequalities in the film system. The failure to serve the remote north and other indigenous communities has been neglected by the mainstream film industry. IDI’s goal is to expand Canadian box office to Inuit, Metis, First Nations and other indigenous communities not served by conventional film distributors, and excluded from benefits of Canada’s heavily subsidized, taxpayer-supported film financing system.

Including indigenous audiences in fair access to films and other media advances several important core goals of government, business and Aboriginal political and economic development organizations. Some of these include: improving social justice, building Canadian audience, film industry reform, increasing economic opportunities, innovation in new information technologies and improving Canada’s Human Rights record in the eyes of the world.

Special Thanks to our Sponsors: Air Creebec, Air Inuit, Canada Council for the Arts, First Air, Kivalliq Inuit Association, Makivik Corporation, Nunavut Film, SODEC, Telefilm Canada and Wasaya Airways. In Mexico, Grupo Niza, in Greenland Danish Film Institute and Nuuk FM.

Read more: Extending Canadian Film Distribution North of the 51st Parallel.

See the screening calendar.

Find out how to get involved with the IFN Tour.