2022 This is Turtle Island

This is Turtle Island

A satirical documentary representing the reclamation of cultural narrative by exploring the modern realities of Indigenous identity in Canada.

This is Turtle Island explores the current state of Indigenous culture in Canada. In this film, Indigenous Canadians take the opportunity to share their story, discussing their experiences with stereotypes, land acknowledgements, and Canadian identity. This modern day reality is contrasted against historical misrepresentation, exploring the relationship between the two and further highlighting the importance of telling our own stories.

Territories Map of Canada

The Team

William Yeh (he/him) - Director/Producer

The representation of indigenous people has always been a priority for me. Having the opportunity to explore it in this documentary is a dream come true.

Sam Koabel (he/him) - Location Sound Recordist

I was drawn to this project because I believe that the voices of First Nations people deserve to be heard, and this doc allows for an insider perspective on the topic that is much needed in discussions surrounding Indigenous people.

Brian Schute - Sound Editor

I'm excited to contribute to such a great and engaging project!

Daniel Stubbs - VFX

I was drawn to this project because Will's art direction really interested me and it was something I knew I wanted to be involved with.

Noah Levac - Director

I was drawn to this project because I think Will’s decision to satirize how Indigenous people have been treated for so long is a bold and new direction to the narrative that I haven’t seen anywhere else. I’m excited to show everyone what we’ve been working on!

Octavio Couto (he/him) - Producer

I’m drawn to this project because there is still so much that I’ve never been taught about these topics, and I think because of the lack of education there is a lot of work that needs to be done to help people understand these struggles and issues better.

Samantha Gisser (she/her) - Transmedia Producer

I was drawn to this project for its unique satirical approach, and because I am passionate about people telling their own stories and reclaiming their own narratives. I am proud and glad that within my role, I get to help this important story and perspective be heard.

Leo Sadek - Director of Photography

Stories like these are very important to be heard and seen and that’s why I am very happy to have joined this team. I had the chance to work with a wonderful crew, witness true stories first hand told by their original people, and of course, participate in the making of a very creative approach to educate and demolish stereotypes about indigenous people and truly acknowledge their struggles and rights. I am very excited for others to watch our documentary!

Ben Lord (he/him) - Picture Editor

I am honoured to have been entrusted with editing for this provocative yet socially necessary story. Helping to tell the stories of those whose narratives are often out of their own control, is a value at the core of my creative aspirations.

Adam Dashney (they/them) - Composer

I've always been passionate about topics concerning social justice and representation, so having the opportunity to include my music in a project like this is really exciting! I think This is Turtle Island shows a really interesting perspective on indigenous history in Canada, and I'm really happy to be involved with its production.