Breaking the Celluloid Ceiling: Exploring the Unique Female Inuit Perspective in Before Tomorrow (Marie-Hélène Cousineau and Madeline Ivalu 2008)

Abstract

While acknowledging the diverse designations and feminist perspectives associated with female directors in mainstream cinema, this paper explores the intricacies of female film directing in the context of mainstream cinema, which historically encountered significant challenges. Filmmaking faced notable difficulties before the 1980s, the exploration of female film directing becomes particularly complex, given the predominantly patriarchal nature of the film industry. The paper highlights Arnait Video Productions as a remarkable phenomenon, emphasizing its ability to convey a unique Indigenous female perspective through cinematic production, particularly in the film Before Tomorrow (2008), directed by Marie-Hélène Cousineau and Madeline Ivalu. The study aims to analyze and elucidate the nuances of this distinct female Indigenous collective filmmaking style, exploring its broader implications for the revitalization of Indigenous culture as portrayed in Before Tomorrow. The present article navigates the multifaceted discourse surrounding female film directors while focusing on the specific context of Indigenous cinema and the significance of Arnait Video Productions in preserving and mediating Indigenous culture through the medium of cinema.