Bella Bella
1975
27 min
Coming soon
This documentary short is an introduction to the Bella Bella (Heiltsuk) of Campbell Island, 500 km North of Vancouver on the Pacific Coast. Since the coming of settlers, these fishing people have watched their ancient Heiltsuk culture and their independence all but disappear. Today, in an energetic attempt to become self-sufficient, they are regaining both - successfully combining economic development with cultural revival. We hear the Heiltsuk language spoken in the film (Haíɫzaqvḷa).
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Pacificanada1974 8 filmsWhat makes British Columbia different from the rest of the country is a fascinating subject no matter what form it takes. When explored on film it makes for vivid contrasts and not a few surprises. The films in this series capture a colorful spectrum of life on the west side of the Great Divide, reflecting not only the physical magnitude of the land, vertically and horizontally, but the character of the people who meet its challenge.
Details
This documentary short is an introduction to the Bella Bella (Heiltsuk) of Campbell Island, 500 km North of Vancouver on the Pacific Coast. Since the coming of settlers, these fishing people have watched their ancient Heiltsuk culture and their independence all but disappear. Today, in an energetic attempt to become self-sufficient, they are regaining both - successfully combining economic development with cultural revival.
We hear the Heiltsuk language spoken in the film (Haíɫzaqvḷa).
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directorBarbara Greene
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producerJohn N. Smith
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executive producerIan McLaren
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photographyAndré GagnonYves Drapeau
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soundClaude Lefebvre
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editingBarrie HowellsTina Viljoen
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sound editingJohn Knight
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re-recordingJean-Pierre Joutel
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musicLarry Crosley
Education
Ages 12 to 15
Geography - Territory: Indigenous
Indigenous Studies - History/Politics
Indigenous Studies - Identity/Society
Keeping their culture alive while adopting the comfort and amenities of modern society was a challenge that the young people of the Heiltsuk Nation tackled in the 1970s. Did they succeed? Tracing the evolution of this community and profiling their current situation using Web research is a good starting point for better understanding Canada’s diversity. What communities in this country are currently facing similar challenges?
