Analyzing The Film 'Dene Students Paddle Canada's Longest River'

Films act as an influential way to emphasize the importance of one’s culture, traditions, and heritage. The documentary “Dene Students Paddle Canada’s Longest River” highlights the students’ relationship between finding their identity and exploring the land. The filmmaker used lighting to represent beauty and sound to exaggerate nature's wonders. The filmmaker also included traditional music to emphasize the significance of the Dene people's bond with their lands. Through editing, the filmmaker was able to use close-up filming to create intimate scenes with the Dene people and used drone shots to capture the exquisiteness of nature. To explore historical issues and experiences, the documentary goes back to the past, allowing students to learn

As the students passed by Norman Wells ((CBC/Radio-Canada, 18:03), the dynamic sounds and aerial shots of the boats and machines inspired them to take the initiative to involve traditional practices throughout their everyday lives. Moreover, the students talk about their travel experience along the Mackenzie River. “For me, like the significance of Bear Rock, it’s the first time I’ve connected to any sort of Dene story... You could just feel the power and significance." 17:23 - 17:42. As the students come close to the end of the film, they express their desire to promote inclusivity and incorporate their traditions into their everyday lives. As they experienced Bear Rock, the realization of protecting the lands and cultures became prominent. The quote symbolizes their commitment to preserve and reconcile with the land. It emphasizes their efforts to reclaim and rediscover how they can become part of the Dene lifestyle. In listening to the stories of the ancestors, one felt connected as they passed by the mountains as it is the place where Yamoria skinned three beavers, and it is one of their creation stories. In addition, the documentary reflects on how the students are aware of the need to make positive change. “What am I doing to make a difference in that?” (18:58 - 19:18). This quote emphasizes how the Indigenous people are making efforts to actively participate in reconnecting with the land. As the journey progresses, the students’ aspirations to pass down their knowledge to future generations deepen as they feel a new sense of connection to the land and their ancestors. The aerial shots of the students paddling on the Mackenzie River provide a visual representation of the importance of preserving culture and cherishing ancestral knowledge. It also stresses the beauty of the land and the connection it has with the Dene