Falls Around Her

Falls Around Her is a Canadian drama film that came out in 2018. The film is directed by Darlene Naponse and features Tantoo Cardinal, Tina Keeper, and Gail Maurice in the lead roles. The movie explores themes of identity, culture, and homecoming.

The film introduces us to Mary Birchbark who is a world-renowned Anishinaabe musician. After years of living in a big city, she decides to return to her hometown in Northern Ontario. Mary buys a cabin in the woods where she can finally be alone with her music and her thoughts.

As she settles in, Mary starts to explore the surrounding wilderness, often taking long walks and runs along the trails. She comes across an injured wolf and decides to take care of it. Mary starts to develop a bond with the wolf and names him 'Takoda'.

While her time in the wilderness brings her peace, Mary realizes that she cannot escape her past. Memories of her childhood start to flood back, and she starts to question her identity as an Anishinaabe woman who has been living in the western world for so long.

Mary's sister Betty arrives to spend time with her. Although they share a history, the two sisters have grown distant over the years. Betty is eager to reconnect with her sister, but Mary struggles with letting her guard down.

The town's locals, who are predominantly Anishinaabe, welcome Mary back with open arms. They support her music and the message of her songs, which convey both the beauty and pain of her culture.

As Mary continues to spend time in the wilderness and reconnects with her past, she starts to realize that her music can connect her to her community in a deeper way. Her songs become a way for her to express her love for her land and her people.

Falls Around Her is a slow-paced movie that requires attention and patience from the audience. The film's rural setting and focus on nature provide a calming and serene atmosphere. The cast delivers powerful performances, especially Tantoo Cardinal in the lead role, who brings depth and nuance to Mary's character.

Throughout the movie, the themes of cultural identity and displacement are explored in a way that feels natural and honest. Falls Around Her is a poignant portrayal of a woman's journey towards self-discovery and homecoming.