The Stand

Mixing animation with a wealth of archival footage, Chris Auchter’s film explores the 1985 dispute over logging on Haida Gwaii. On one side are Western Forest Products and Frank Beban Logging, who plan to engage in clearcut logging on Tllga Kun Gwaayaay (Lyell Island) and are supported by the BC government. On the other side is the Haida Nation, which wishes to protect its lands against further destruction. The confrontation involves court proceedings and a blockade, and Auchter takes us from canny retrospective commentary to the thick of the action.

Crucial to The Stand’s political aims is its depiction of simple human grace. The pride and passion of the Haida Nation representatives are foregrounded; especially stirring are spokesperson Miles Richardson, Jr. and the elders who are willing to be arrested for their actions. There is no harsh rhetoric (save for the bloviation of TV commentator Jack Webster, who strenuously supports the loggers); instead, the controversy is marked by a respect that does not at all undermine moral conviction.

Feb 28, 12:45 pm screening: Q&A with director Christopher Auchter

Impressive… There are some genuine learning experiences here.

Pat Mullen, POV magazine