In 2020, we look for films that lift you up and this film is one you should add to your watch list…
but as you may view this as a feel-good film, it also addresses some very important issues related to the Inuit students in Kugluktuk, where the community is suffering from widespread drug use, alcohol abuse, domestic violence, and one of the highest teen suicide rates in the world and this northern community is periled by the legacy of colonialism.
Find out more about the backstory about the REAL Grizzlies here
In the film, the students are skeptical when Russ Sheppard, another caucasian teacher arrives and he is lacking the understanding of the challenges his new students face every day.
With much to learn, Russ introduces his class to the sport of lacrosse in an effort to help lift the dangerous fog of trauma existing in his students. While initially resistant, the students gradually come together to embrace the sport, form Team Grizzlies and find inspiration to make shifts in their own lives.
Together with Russ, the team gains the support of a deeply divided town and eventually negotiates its way to the National Lacrosse Championships in Toronto.
Despite their ultimate defeat, The Grizzlies discover that success doesn’t lie in the outcome of a lacrosse game; but instead, in the spirit of community.
The Grizzlies are Available on Digital September 15th
About The Grizzlies – Based on a true story, Inuit youth in a small community gain a powerful sense of pride through the sport of lacrosse, in this true-story account of tenacity, renewal, and inspiring resilience.
The film was directed by Miranda de Pencier, executive produced by Academy Award nominee Frank Marshall and Jake Steinfield, and stars Ben Schnetzer, Booboo Stewart, Tantoo Cardinal, Emerald MacDonald, and Will Sasso.
Nominations: Canadian Screen Award for Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role, MOREProducers: Miranda de Pencier, Stacey Aglok MacDonald, Alethea Arnaquq-Baril, Zanne Devine, Damon D’Oliveira
