Gavin Andrews

Cats are the most popular pet in Canada, but despite their cute and cuddly reputations, our feline friends have a dark side.

A Cedar Is Life explores how one critical species, the cedar tree, is central to the cultural life of West Coast First Nations. The film weaves together interviews with elders, artists, and other hands-on practitioners who speak to how all parts of the tree were - and still are - important to make use of, while also highlighting the importance of protecting this ancient ancestor throughout the film. We look at how cedar is bridging cultural gaps today, and how this passing down of knowledge to the next generation is essential for promoting strength of culture in so many Indigenous communities.

Through interviews and creative re-enactments, this documentary examines the near-mythic figure of Cowichan Chief Tzouhalem, the account of his life from both historians and First Nations Elders, the folkloric tales concerning him, his impact on the modern relationship between the Crown and First Nations, and how his legend remains alive to this day, examining critically how his storv has been told and passed down to us.