Beans

Written and directed by Tracey Deer, Beans is a feature film inspired by the true events of the battle for Indigenous land rights in Oka, Canada in 1990. This coming-of-age story is highlighted by a marvellous performance from acting newcomer Kiawentiio.

Mohawk director Tracey Deer, who lived through the violent 78-day conflict as a 12-year-old, has made an inspirational and insightful drama about growing up and the fight for Indigenous land rights. At the centre of the film is the story of Beans: ready to attend high school, keen to grow up and hang with the ultra-cool kids. As tensions in the land conflict escalate, so do the frictions between Beans and her close-knit family.

Beans reveals a chapter in history not widely known and highlights the struggles of growing-up and finding one-self.

Director: Tracey Deer
Cast: Kiawentiio, Violah Beauvais, Rainbow Dickerson
Duration: 92 mins
Rating: Unclassified 18+ 
Country: Canada
Bechdel: Yes
Official selections: Toronto
Warning: Mild protest violence and sexual references.

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