A new chapter in Sámi cinema: ‘My Fathers’ Daughter’ debuts at Toronto
A groundbreaking moment for Sámi-language films
The upcoming film My Fathers’ Daughter is set to make history as the first Sámi-language feature to premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival. Directed by Egil Pedersen, this coming-of-age family dramedy promises to captivate audiences with its unique narrative and cultural significance. The film features a cameo by Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, known for his role in Game of Thrones, who appears as himself in the movie.
The story of Elvira: A journey of self-discovery
My Fathers’ Daughter centers around Elvira, a confident teenager who believes she was conceived at a Danish fertility clinic. Her daydreams often feature her father as a famous movie star, specifically envisioning Coster-Waldau. However, her fantasies are shattered when her real biological father unexpectedly enters her life. This twist sets the stage for a heartfelt exploration of identity and family.
Watch the trailer for My Fathers’ Daughter
Egil Pedersen: A director’s journey
Although My Fathers’ Daughter marks Pedersen’s feature debut, he is no stranger to the world of filmmaking. With a portfolio that includes 18 music videos, 15 shorts, and numerous commissioned films and advertisements, Pedersen has honed his craft over the years. His most recent short, Koftepolitiet (Indigenous Police), was particularly well-received within the Sámi community.
A collaborative effort across borders
The film is a co-production between Norway, Sweden, and Finland, involving companies such as Rein Film, Paasan, Oktober, Bautafilm, and Filmpool Nord. International sales are being handled by Pluto Film. The project also received crucial backing from Neo, a program by the Norwegian Film Institute that supports debut films from talented directors.
Pedersen acknowledges the importance of Neo’s support, stating, “Without Neo, the film wouldn’t have been made. After many years of rejections from The Norwegian Film Institute, we were accepted by Neo.” He also highlights the role of the Publikum audience insight program, which uses artificial intelligence and interviews to expand the story’s potential.
Personal reflections and cultural themes
For Pedersen, My Fathers’ Daughter is more than just a film; it’s a personal journey. “I always knew that I was Sámi, but as a child, I never felt good enough to be a real Sámi among other Sámi people,” he shares. His experiences of racially motivated violence during his teenage years further shaped his perspective.
After graduating from The Norwegian Film School, Pedersen initially doubted his acceptance as a Sámi filmmaker. However, the International Sámi Film Institute eventually embraced him, allowing him to grow into his role. “During the 2010s, I slowly transformed with doubt and hesitation into a Sámi filmmaker,” he reflects.
A debut to remember
My Fathers’ Daughter will make its debut on September 8 in the Discovery section of this year’s Toronto Film Festival. This premiere marks a significant milestone for Sámi cinema and offers a platform for Sámi stories to reach a broader audience.
Final thoughts
The release of My Fathers’ Daughter is a testament to the power of storytelling and cultural representation. As the first Sámi-language feature to premiere at a major international film festival, it paves the way for future filmmakers from indigenous communities. Pedersen’s journey from doubt to acceptance mirrors the film’s themes of identity and belonging, making it a poignant and timely addition to the world of cinema.
For those interested in exploring more about the film, you can watch the trailer and learn more about the story here.
By weaving personal reflections with in-depth analysis, this article aims to provide a comprehensive look at My Fathers’ Daughter and its significance in the world of cinema. Whether you’re a fan of movies, TV series, or music, there’s something here for everyone to appreciate.