John Marston narrates, leading us through his process in carving a canoe and having it put on display at the Museum of Anthropology at UBC. He tells us the story of the Thunderbird and the Killer Whale and shares some history from his culture as well as his personal life, revealing that he painted the Thunderbird and the Killer Whale on his canoe to honor Simon Charlie, who had done the same years earlier.
Thunderbird and Killer Whale is a wonderfully informative film with lots to offer in terms of history. The documentary centers around how a First Nations person connects with his culture. I like the way the documentary follows a chronological order of events, which makes it more like an immersive experience than an informational video. It begins with the carving of the canoe and, in the opening scene, we see a photo of a young John Marston in the middle of carving. The canoe is finished, displayed to an elementary school, and then painted once Marston comes up with the idea to paint the Thunderbird and Killer Whale. The cinematography is impeccable. The close-up shots allow the viewer to see exactly how the carving is performed, slowly chipping away at the wood using a chisel. It made me realize just how much work went into making this canoe and I definitely appreciate it more after getting to watch snippets of the long process. During breaks of the narrative, breathtaking images of crystal-clear lakes, rivers and lush green forests are displayed. These are images of Canada, Marston's place of origin. There are also close-up shots of the carving process, as well as the finished product. The quality is very clear and definitely suitable for exhibition. The background music stands out during the short spaces when there is no narrative. It is calming and soft, true to the peaceful nature of the film. Combined with the images of trees and still lakes, the music produces a very relaxing effect, like a deep breath of fresh air. I felt grounded and even more connected with nature. John Marston is an engaging speaker. He keeps an easygoing and conversational approach, especially when he is narrating the story of the Thunderbird and Killer Whale. He is a natural educator who definitely piqued my curiosity, encouraging me to learn more on my own.
My favorite part of the film is the story of the Thunderbird and Killer Whale. According to the legend, the Killer Whale lived at the mouth of a river and was swallowing up all the villagers' food and resources. The villagers called for help, and the Thunderbird swooped in and rescued them by moving the Killer Whale away from the river. Hearing the story behind the paintings on Marston's canoe gives them significance, reminding me how these images mean something and are not simply meaningless art.
The film's message is that embracing culture looks different for everyone. You may want to take part in rituals that your ancestors practiced, cook their favorite traditional meals or even interview a family member to immerse yourself in their lives. The way you connect with your past is unique, so take the lead and do what feels right to you.
I give Thunderbird and Killer Whale 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Ella S., KIDS FIRST!
John Marston narrates, leading us through his process in carving a canoe and having it put on display at the Museum of Anthropology at UBC. He tells us the story of the Thunderbird and the Killer Whale and shares some history from his culture as well as his personal life, revealing that he painted the Thunderbird and the Killer Whale on his canoe to honor Simon Charlie, who had done the same years earlier.
Thunderbird and Killer Whale is a wonderfully informative film with lots to offer in terms of history. The documentary centers around how a First Nations person connects with his culture. I like the way the documentary follows a chronological order of events, which makes it more like an immersive experience than an informational video. It begins with the carving of the canoe and, in the opening scene, we see a photo of a young John Marston in the middle of carving. The canoe is finished, displayed to an elementary school, and then painted once Marston comes up with the idea to paint the Thunderbird and Killer Whale. The cinematography is impeccable. The close-up shots allow the viewer to see exactly how the carving is performed, slowly chipping away at the wood using a chisel. It made me realize just how much work went into making this canoe and I definitely appreciate it more after getting to watch snippets of the long process. During breaks of the narrative, breathtaking images of crystal-clear lakes, rivers and lush green forests are displayed. These are images of Canada, Marston's place of origin. There are also close-up shots of the carving process, as well as the finished product. The quality is very clear and definitely suitable for exhibition. The background music stands out during the short spaces when there is no narrative. It is calming and soft, true to the peaceful nature of the film. Combined with the images of trees and still lakes, the music produces a very relaxing effect, like a deep breath of fresh air. I felt grounded and even more connected with nature. John Marston is an engaging speaker. He keeps an easygoing and conversational approach, especially when he is narrating the story of the Thunderbird and Killer Whale. He is a natural educator who definitely piqued my curiosity, encouraging me to learn more on my own.
My favorite part of the film is the story of the Thunderbird and Killer Whale. According to the legend, the Killer Whale lived at the mouth of a river and was swallowing up all the villagers' food and resources. The villagers called for help, and the Thunderbird swooped in and rescued them by moving the Killer Whale away from the river. Hearing the story behind the paintings on Marston's canoe gives them significance, reminding me how these images mean something and are not simply meaningless art.
The film's message is that embracing culture looks different for everyone. You may want to take part in rituals that your ancestors practiced, cook their favorite traditional meals or even interview a family member to immerse yourself in their lives. The way you connect with your past is unique, so take the lead and do what feels right to you.
I give Thunderbird and Killer Whale 4.5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. By Ella S., KIDS FIRST!
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