#TIFF22: “BONES OF CROWS”

By Amanda Gilmore

Bones of Crows is important, powerful and necessary while also being incredibly well-made.

This powerful Film tells the story of Cree matriarch Aline Spears (played at different ages by Summer Testawich, Grace Dove, and Carla Rae) who was born in Canada in the 1920s. It follows her from her childhood, being taken away from her family and thrust into the residential school system, her time in the military during WWII, and her inspiring determination to bring her oppressors’ crimes to light.

It’s through Spears’ story that Writer-Director Marie Clements highlights the centuries of abuse and oppression by the Canadian Government and Institutions. The Canadian Residential School System has been a topic on our news a lot recently. However, Clements brings you to this heinous place. This, and other scenes, make for a tough viewing experience, but an essential one.

Bones of Crows tells an important story, while stunning to watch. The Cinematography by Vince Arvidson captivates and works seamlessly with Clements’ direction. And the Cast of women who bring Spears to the screen gives affecting performances.

Warning: Bones of Crows does come with a warning both before the Film and on the TIFF website. It reads, “This programme contains scenes that may distress some viewers, especially those who have experienced harm, abuse, violence, and/or intergenerational trauma due to colonial practices.”

Bones of Crows screens as follows at TIFF ’22:

Sat, Sep 10 IN-PERSON at Scotiabank Theatre at 5:45 pm

Thu, Sep 15 IN-PERSON at TIFF Bell Lightbox at 11:00 am