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Drum Song: The Rhythm of Life – A Celebration at AFI

The Anchorage International Film Festival is proud to showcase Drum Song: The Rhythm of Life during its closing block, a film that promises to resonate deeply with its audience. Scheduled for December 14, 2024, at the Bear Tooth Theatrepub, this screening is part of the NATIVE VOICES lineup. The event is set to begin at 4 PM, followed by an engaging Q&A with the filmmakers, inviting dialogue around the vital themes presented in this moving documentary.

Drum Song: The Rhythm of Life is not just a film; it's a collaborative endeavor that brings together Indigenous Alaskans and Arctic scientists. Supported by organizations such as the Eskimo Walrus Commission and the International Arctic Research Center, this documentary creatively merges traditional knowledge with modern scientific understanding to address the pressing climate crisis. Through its powerful storytelling, it highlights the challenges facing Alaska's Indigenous peoples as they navigate the changes brought on by climate disruption.

The documentary, which made its impactful debut at the UNFCCC COP28 in Dubai, has garnered significant acclaim, achieving 19 awards and 4 nominations from various film festivals. This recognition is a testament to the film’s powerful narrative and the importance of its subject matter. Notable film festivals that have honored the film include the Accolade Global Film Competition, the Impact Docs festival, and the Toronto International Women's Film Festival, among others. The film works to educate audiences about the effects of climate change on Alaska’s landscape, culture, and community.

In addition to the documentary, there is a companion piece titled Reclamation. This music video, directed by Kelly Moneymaker, acclaimed for her work as a member of the pop group Exposé, serves as a vibrant call to action. The animated rock-n-roll music video urges Indigenous communities and their allies to stand in defense of their lands against climate change and industrial encroachment. Moneymaker emphasizes the importance of community involvement in the storytelling process, stating, “Each stage of the research and filmmaking has been guided by local communities.”

This initiative not only elevates Indigenous voices but also serves as a model of cooperation and respect between cultures and disciplines. Filmmaker Kelly Moneymaker reflects on her experience, stating it has been a privilege to return to her roots and work closely with those who shared their ancestral wisdom in the making of Drum Song: The Rhythm of Life.

The screening at the Anchorage International Film Festival represents a unique platform for raising awareness about the environmental issues confronting Indigenous populations as they adapt their traditional practices to the current climate challenges. The film underscores the critical role of Indigenous knowledge in addressing these urgent issues, fostering a deeper understanding of our relationship with the environment.

For more information about the film and the festival, you can visit the official website of Drum Song Films here or follow them on Instagram and Facebook to stay updated on future projects and screenings.

Mark your calendars for this significant event and join us in celebrating the resilience of Indigenous communities as they share their stories and wisdom through the powerful medium of film. This is not just a viewing experience; it’s an opportunity to engage in essential conversations about climate adaptation and Indigenous rights, contributing to a more informed and empathetic global community.