Moxy Fox Studio
The Qaqsoss naka Wahuntuhsis (which literally translates to Fox and the Tiny Demon) is a wonderfully animated film which is like a children’s graphic novel come to life. When Tara Audibert from the Tobique First Nation in New Brunswick came up with the idea about the struggles this animal has to face, I’m sure the decision on how to bring it to life and relatable to the human condition was tough. . She wanted the narrative to deal with mental illness, an idea reasonably well conveyed, and show how this critter can deal with those personal demons.
And when there’s a literal one appearing occasionally during this fox’s wanderings through a magical forest, the fact this young cub doesn’t always take notice is amusing. But at some point, this supernatural force will have to appear!
The narrative is quite simple: after escaping a pack of wolves hunting her, she enters this darker world with the knowledge they won’t pursue. However, during this time, the said homunculus appears and watches. Without Carole Polchies’ narration, some aspects of this tale would be perplexing.
After Qaqsoss enters the woods, she sets up camp and learns to survive in the darkness with giant bugs and scary creatures she has never seen before. The Tiny Demon watches her and causes her much havoc, he seems to ruin everything he touches. When his behaviour is like Stitch, (Disney), I’m instantly in love. However, when the vixen wants to be alone, she would like this entity to befriend her instead of vexing her.
She’s never sure about her adversary’s motives, and when dealing with her own problems, life is tough. Although the second act is long by showing their daily antics, what’s presented fleshes out their adorable relationship. However, when something darker manifests in Wahuntuhsis’ psyche, it’s tough not to get violent. As a result, he runs away rather than stick around lest he harm his new best friend!
When this demon looks like he’s experiencing domestic abuse, just how a fox can help is tough. However, in what’s taught here is more than a fable. Readers easily understand the symbolism and metaphors. And as for how long their friendship lasted, well, that’d be saying too much.
5 Stars out of 5
The Qaqsoss naka Wahuntuhsis Movie Trailer
Additional Upcoming Screenings Include
- Lumbee Film Festival: There’s a showing scheduled for Saturday, July 5th, at 1:00 PM at Moore Hall at UNCP.
- THIRD SHIFT: PSYCHE in Saint John, New Brunswick: This festival has a 4:00 PM showtime at the BMO Studio Theatre on Saturday, August 17, 2025.