When I last talked to him, this project was in the early stages of pre-production. And now that it’s ready to make its world debut at the Victoria Film Festival (Feb 9 at the Blue Bridge Theatre), they can talk about the concept more! There will be a Q&A after the screening, and for those wondering how this concept came to be, “The original idea is based on Harold’s work,” said Bland. “He’s a cultural worker for the Kwakiutl and other neighbouring Nations, and it was from a pitch he put forth in front of our staff one day.”
After many conversations, Sophie Underwood and Harold Joe wrote the first draft. One key aspect of the story they wanted to focus on is why it’s important to return stolen artefacts and put them back from where they were removed. That’s because there’s a belief that an essence exists in everything. And unless one asks permission for it to be taken, that spirit can become restless. When it’s from some tomb, trouble is guaranteed to erupt.
As for what can happen, “I think our settler Society brain thinks there’ll be retribution–Poetic Justice, in other words. But what we have presented is a lot more realistic, perhaps based on how a community will react,” said Bland.
Darryl Dennis came onboard to help fine tune and make this concept entertaining. As a comedian, writer, actor, and director, he’s done a lot and is a respected name in the community. He’s appeared in shows to talk about this indigenous world’s national identity, and what he’s added to the screenplay gives it another layer to examine. To understand where he’s coming from, the CBC has archived his radio show, ReVision Quest.
“I don’t think I’m over-claiming too much by saying that the tendency with First Nations themed work (until our film) is that it’s based on some traumatic event. Those can be wonderful films. But here, we’re gonna do something different. What we’re presenting is a look at how to pay serious respect for ancestral debt, and it’s framed in a really entertaining package,” said Bland.
This film may well also consider answering the question of why some properties held at the museum go on display and others do not. Back when these objects were gained, lots of stuff was simply boxed up, often ignored for decades until somebody gets the desire to study it. Bland doesn’t understand why they aren’t returned. He said that’s why we have people like Harold Joe. They are doing everything they can to ask museums to return those items taken long ago. As for locating those lost to private collections, that’s another story.
“And I’m speaking for him when I say this: That’s his job to get them back to sleep. That’s his role as an archaeological consultant. So that when you disturb the graves or remove the funerary artefacts that are buried with them, it’s implied those spirits will be upset. Bad things are bound to happen,” revealed Leslie.
The story this team has created should get those attending this inaugural screening thinking. This movie won’t be like the animated DreamWorks high adventure fantasy Curses! (my review can be read here). The Great Salish Heist is rooted in reality, and the bit of special effects used is merely an afterthought so viewers understand Joe’s connection with the spirit world is not just a dream.
Bland said, “We made an indigenous version of Ocean’s Eleven. It’s a comedy. It’s a heist. Instead of breaking into a casino, they’re going to have to find a way into a museum after hours.”
And to sell this movie to a wider audience, other stars include Graham Greene (Dances with Wolves) and Tricia Helfer (Battlestar Galactica). They play representatives of the indigenous and corporate world. To see how they clash makes for a great plot.
Also, this locally made film was made with help from the tribal communities in the Cowichan Valley. Not only did they provide a lot of relics to use but also lent their spaces. All those details help make this film look authentic. Even Harold has a role, where he plays Auggie–an individual who helped teach him the ropes for what he’s doing now. To pay homage to this mentor was important and I’m sure he’s honoured in the end credits too.
After the screening, it’s slated to play next up island, before heading to Vancouver. When most of the production crew are from this region, they’re just as eager to see the result. Further shows are still being planned, and the latest word is that these screenings will begin March 9th. Bland will bring the entire cast together for a huge debut in Toronto, and he encourages readers to visit Orca Cove Media’s webpage and their social media channels like Facebook for the latest updates.
The Great Salish Heist Movie Trailer
