The Cinematheque

“Nechako does a great job of summarizing this gruelling and complex fight, but its real strength lies in the affection Patrick summons for the people behind the struggle … It’s anything but didactic.”

Adrian Mack, Stir

Our Stories to Tell celebrates series advisor Lyana Patrick on the release of her feature documentary debut, Nechako. Patrick, a member of the Stellat’en Nation, returns home to document the Stellat’en and Saik’uz Nations in their groundbreaking legal proceedings against the Canadian federal and provincial governments and Rio Tinto Alcan, subsidiary of a global mining conglomerate. In the early 1950s, the construction of the Kenney Dam irreparably damaged the landscape of Northern British Columbia, the Nechako River, and the flora, fauna, and communities of the region. Patrick’s film captures the Nations’ resistance against industry, banding together to advocate for their people and fight to restore a river and a way of life. Nechako is a call to action against large-scale environmental destruction amid a story of hope and survival for our collective future.

In English and Dakelh with English subtitles

Post-screening Q&A with director Lyana Patrick.

Please note: Unclaimed tickets for complimentary screenings at The Cinematheque will be released 15 minutes before showtime. Please arrive early to guarantee your seat.