Indigenous Film in a Colonized Theater: The Role of Independent Exhibition in Screening Indigenous Films

Abstract

The decisions that non-Indigenous independent film exhibitors make regarding exhibiting Indigenous film have the possibility of impacting the films themselves, as well as the audience’s experience of engaging with these films, both in a problematic sense, or in a positive sense. By examining previous academic work surrounding the ideas of visual sovereignty and the virtual reservation, and finding where these ideas intersect with exhibition, it becomes clear how the role of White exhibition spaces can potentially impact the autonomy of Indigenous filmmakers, as exhibited through their films. The decisions exhibitors make regarding specific exhibition practices such as film selection, marketing practices, funding, etc. all have an important impact on the exhibition experience. Examining how specific exhibitors such as the Sundance Film Institute, the Doris Duke Theatre, and Northwest Film Forum, are currently engaging with Indigenous programming brings the conversation into the current industry landscape. Exhibition creates a unique set of opportunities for independent exhibitors to examine how best they can honor Indigenous filmmakers and their films, while still finding unique ways to contextualize these works within their individual spaces and for their specific audiences.