This film discusses topics of trauma and abuse. Viewer discretion is advised. Meneath: The Hidden Island of Ethics dives deeply into the innate contrast between the Seven Deadly Sins (Lust, Gluttony, Greed, Sloth, Wrath, Pride and Envy) and the Seven Sacred Teachings (Love, Respect, Wisdom, Courage, Truth, Honesty and Humility), as embodied in the life of a precocious Métis baby. Brought to life by Terril Calder’s darkly beautiful stop-motion animation, her inner turmoil of abuse is laid bare with unflinching honesty. Convinced she’s soiled and destined for Hell, Baby Girl receives teachings that fill her with strength and pride, and affirm a path towards healing. Calder’s tour-de-force unearths a hauntingly familiar yet hopeful world that illuminates the bias of colonial systems
Awards and distinctions
Mixed Media- Silver
Animation Festival, Los Angeles
2022
Best Animated Short Award
Annual American Indian Film Festival, San Francisco
2022
Audience Choice- Best Short Film (Virtual)
Cinefest (HYBRID), Sudbury
2022
Special Jury Award– École NAD-UQAC
Sommets du cinéma d'animation, Montréal
2022
Trickster Award
Skoden Indigenous Film Festival, Vancouver
2022
International Jury Special Mention
Tricky Women International Women's Animated Film Festival (HYBRID), Vienna
2022
Audience Award for Top Canadian Short
GIRAF International Festival of Independent Animation, Calgary
2021
Special Mention - Canadian Film Institute (CFI) Award for Best Canadian Animation