Tse’Nato’ at Poeh-chella!

A still from Adziil starring Nicole Sam, Directed by Natalie Benally, and Produced by Shreen Khan

Recently, our latest dance short film, Adziil, was featured at the Pathways Indigenous Arts Film Festival aka Poeh-chella. The Festival featured over 30 films by Native filmmakers and also hosted panel discussions after each screening. Some of the notable films screened included Frybread Face and Me, Hail to the Breadsticks, and Winding Path.

Nicole Sam (left) Natalie Benally (right)

Adziil was shown as part of the Multiple Generations showcase, where films showcased the diverse generations of the Indigenous experience. Our film's leading performer, Nicole Sam and her family were all in attendance at the screening. As we watched the films in this segment, we both realized just how unique our film was in terms of tone and content. Adziil’s burst of joy and energy provided a refreshing break from the somber and heaviness historically seen in Native cinema.  During a Q&A, the audience members shared how great it was to see Native joy on screen and that the film gave them a chance to have fun and be happy. 

I think that's been one of the best parts of Adziil being experienced by our community. Most times, we see a lot of stories about our pain and trauma. So our mission in this film, but also our company, is to share stories that highlight our joy and happiness. We are seeing the immense impact it has whenever audience members smile, laugh, and cheer as they watch Adziil. 

We are excited that Adziil is still going to make its debut at several upcoming festivals later in the year. We can't wait for more people to partake in this wonderful journey with Nicole and share more of her talent and story with the community.