Bee Nation

Bee Nation is a 2017 deeply heartening Canadian documentary that cosy in on the lives of young students from Saskatchewan as they prepare for and participate in the province's inaugural First Nations Provincial Spelling Bee. Directed by Lana Šlezić, the film offering a charming exploration of the education system in rural and reservation areas of Canada and, more importantly, the determination and resilience of young minds.

The movie famously stars real-life students William Kaysaywaysemat, Makayla Cannepotato, Josie Singer, Savannah Nicks, and Alexander Johansson, capturing their raw and authentic performances as they navigate their journey of academic life. Importantly, the movie does not cast them in the role of mere actors, but rather articulates their genuine experiences, thus bringing an element of profound truthfulness in the narrative.

Bee Nation opens with an explanation about the lack of opportunity for many First Nations children due to the underfunded education system. This background sets the scene for what is to transpire, providing the audience with a heartfelt understanding of the deep-rooted issues experienced by these communities. The mammoth task of preparing for a large-scale spelling competition against these odds is where the film focuses its lens.

The Saskatchewan First Nations Provincial Spelling Bee is the big event where the children will be showcasing their skills. This is unheard of in their communities, as such initiatives have rarely, if ever, been launched before. The movie does well to immediately present this as a source of motivation for the children to excel at something that can outstretch the boundaries of their day-to-day experiences.

This nuanced narrative is intertwined with personal stories and special moments with each child and their parents. The documentary format allows us to see intimate moments from each child’s life. Makayla Cannepotato, an eager participant from the Chief Taypotat Community School, is captured beautifully in her preparation for the competition. Equally compelling is the vox-pop of the intelligent and insightful Savannah Nicks.

The stark contrast between children who come from families that are deeply invested in their education, like William Kaysaywaysemat III, and those who come from more challenging backgrounds only serves to underline the remarkable determination of these youngsters, as they navigate their preparation for the contest.

The filmmaker, Lana Šlezić, who begins as an observer, soon turns into a story-anchor, drawing powerful narrative threads from the children’s experiences. Approximately halfway through, Bee Nation takes its audience to Toronto, for the national championships. The differences between the relatively rural Saskatchewan and the bustling, cosmopolitan city of Toronto further amplify the underlying exploration of socio-economic disparities and the children's resilience.

Bee Nation essentially pivots its narrative on hope, empowerment, and resilience. It captures the earnestness in the children's eyes looking towards a more promising future, where they can escape a destiny outlined by socio-economic disparity. It does so with moments that are poignant and joyous or thoughtful and inspiring, never losing focus on the children, who are the heart and the soul of the film.

Moreover, the movie also subtly underlines the role of parents and community in encouraging these children and supporting their aspirations, thus offering a heartening exploration of community building and the inherent power of collective growth.

The film is shot realistically, with the camera at times seeming to disappear into spaces, capturing candid moments of the children and their families. There is an evident truthfulness and honesty that binds the scenes together, creating an intrinsic authenticity in the narrative. The film does not shy away from hard-hitting realities of life but delivers them with a dash of grace and wit.

Ultimately, Bee Nation is a radiant ode to the power of education, potential, resilience, and hope against odds. It vividly portraits the lives of First Nations children, their dreams, and their indomitable spirit as they spell their path to a brighter future. Through the laughter, tears, and triumphs of these children, Bee Nation challenges the audience to reflect on the broader societal systems, shed stereotypes, and recognize the innate strength of the human spirit.