On Sunday, July 14th, People & Wolves, a Wisconsin Story of Coexistence, was awarded the Best Documentary Short by The Red Cedar Film Festival in Menomonie, Wisconsin. On hand to accept the award were Producer/Director Rachel Tilseth, Editor Justin Koehler, and Camerman Tyler Grape.
For centuries, the Ojibwe have lived alongside their brother Ma’iingan, who we know in English to be the wolf. In February 2021, a Brutal assault, a hunt on their wolf relative, stirs emotion and grief for Ma’iingan as they know what happens to him will happen to them.
A Wolves of Douglas County Wisconsin Film by Rachel Tilseth and edited by Justin Koehler.
Cast: Edith Leoso, Peter David, Marvin DeFoe, Michael Waasegiizhig Price, Patrick Durkin, Sandy Gokee, John Johnson Sr., and Jane Goodall, DBE, founder of the Jane Goodall Institute and UN Messenger of Peace.
Directed and Produced by Rachel Tilseth, co-producer Manish Bhatt, Writer Rachel Tilseth, and cameraman Tyler Grape.
Poster Art by Ned Gannon
Best Documentary Short: People and Wolves
People & Wolves Official Trailer
People & Wolves
REVIEW BY SHORT FILMS MATTER
Rachel Tilseth‘s documentary is a moving tribute to the deep bond between the Ojibwe people and the wolves of Wisconsin. From the opening scene, viewers are drawn into the heart of this relationship through an evocative interview with Edith Leoso, the Bad River Cultural Preservation Officer of the Ojibwe Tribe of Lake Superior. Leoso’s words resonate deeply, revealing a spiritual connection that is as profound as it is heartbreaking, making it impossible not to empathize with the plight of the wolves and the Ojibwe people alike.
The film’s narrative is bolstered by the contributions of experts like Ecologist Specialist Michael Waasegiizhig Price from the Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission, whose insights add depth and credibility to the argument against wolf hunting. The appearance of Dame Jane Goodall, a renowned champion of conservation and animal welfare, further elevates the documentary, underscoring the global significance of the issue.
Technically, the film is professionally mastered, with stunning cinematography by Tyler Grape that captures the majestic presence of the wolves, combined with the well-framed interview segments. The high quality editing and sound design create a pleasing viewing experience that is both educational and emotionally stirring.
Tilseth’s documentary is a bold statement with a powerful message. It is educational, insightful, and deeply poignant, shedding light on the cultural and spiritual impacts of wolf hunting on an Indigenous community. By the end, you will know more than you ever imagined about the Ojibwe culture and the dire consequences of wolf hunting. This is a must-watch that superbly combines expert interviews, quality visuals, and a heartfelt narrative. Highly recommended. Short Films Matter Review
All videos of wolves in the film courtesy of Voyageurs wolf Project.
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Jim Low
Congratulations Rachel and thanks for sending this along. Will see if i can get a look at this from the library.
Thanks for all the great work you do for our wolves… I haven’t heard/seen a wolf here in about a year unfortunately.
Peace,
Jim low, herbster, wi