Indigenous Filmmaker Ishkwaazhe Shane McSauby in Grand Rapids

News Summary

The Grand Rapids Film Society is set to host Indigenous filmmaker Ishkwaazhe Shane McSauby on March 21 at the Wealthy Theatre. This event, part of the Artist Showcase series, will feature the screening of four of his short films followed by a Q&A session, offering a chance to connect with Indigenous storytelling. Shane, an acclaimed filmmaker and a member of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, will share insights into his creative process and experiences in the film industry.

Grand Rapids Welcomes Indigenous Talent: Ishkwaazhe Shane McSauby Lights Up the Screen!

Hey there, film lovers of Grand Rapids! Get ready to mark your calendars, because this is an event you won’t want to miss. The Grand Rapids Film Society is rolling out the red carpet for an exceptionally talented Indigenous filmmaker as part of its fantastic Artist Showcase series. On Friday, March 21, at the charming Wealthy Theatre, prepare yourself for a night filled with artistic flair and engaging storytelling!

Four Short Films with a Personal Touch

Kicking off at 7 p.m., filmmaker Ishkwaazhe Shane McSauby will be presenting a collection of his four remarkable short films, providing insight into each piece with a live commentary. After the screening, there’ll be a lively discussion and Q&A session that allows you to dive even deeper into Shane’s creative mind and process. It’s an opportunity to connect not just with the films, but also with the heart and soul of Indigenous storytelling.

Meet the Filmmaker

Shane McSauby isn’t just another filmmaker. He’s an enrolled member of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, and he proudly calls Grand Rapids his hometown. His impressive body of work has captured attention worldwide, making waves in tribal communities, museums, and notable film festivals alike. With accolades and recognition under his belt, including being a former Sundance Institute Fellow, Shane brings a wealth of experience to the table. He holds an MFA in writing and directing from NYU Tisch School of the Arts and currently shares his passion for film as a visiting professor at Grand Valley State University.

A Showcase of Acclaimed Works

One of McSauby’s notable films, “Happy Thanksgiving,” has made quite an impression by being selected for eight Academy Award-qualifying festivals, including the Woodstock Film Festival and the Nashville Film Festival. And the excitement doesn’t stop there! His latest creation, “The Beguiling,” not only premiered at the prestigious 2024 Toronto International Film Festival but also had its U.S. debut at SXSW. This captivating 15-minute film tells the story of two Indigenous people whose blossoming romance spirals into a darkly comedic nightmare—it’s sure to be a conversation starter!

A Night Dedicated to Shane’s Vision

The Wealthy Theatre has previously showcased McSauby’s films and is thrilled to dedicate an entire night exclusively to his work and thoughts. With a mission and vision to connect the local community through art, the theater is a proud program of the nonprofit Grand Rapids Community Media Center, which also hosts exciting events like Open Projector Night. This event marks the second year of the Artist Showcase series, and there’s a genuine commitment to providing platforms for deserving artists and to represent diverse voices in the community.

Get Your Tickets!

If you’re excited as we are, grab your tickets soon! It’s only $5 for students and $8 for general admission. They can be easily purchased through the theater’s website at grcmc.com. Don’t miss this wonderful chance to explore McSauby’s unique perspective as a filmmaker and to engage in meaningful conversation around the stories he tells.

This is more than just a film screening—it’s a celebration of culture, creativity, and community. Let’s come together to support Indigenous artistry and enjoy a night filled with inspiration and entertainment. See you there!

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HERE Resources

Additional Resources

• MLive: Local Anishinaabe Film Showcase
• Lanthorn: Filmmaker Gives Talks at GV
• Grand Rapids Magazine: Grand Rapids Native Brings Award-Winning Film Home
• WZZM: West MI Filmmaker’s Movie Shot in Cayman Islands
• Grand Rapids Magazine: Mounds of Evidence