Second Stories builds on that success by providing a continuum of training for three of the twelve Aboriginal filmmakers who delivered such compelling documentary shorts. 

Through this unique mentoring and training process, Second Stories filmmakers have a chance to hone their storytelling craft (in a professional production experience), while working with a strong creative team to assist in the realization of their half-hour documentaries. Each of the filmmakers selected were assigned a story consultant/story editor and an NFB producer. As was the case with First Stories, the emphasis is on enabling First Nations filmmakers to tell the stories that are important to them and their communities.

Honour Thy Father by Gerald Auger
Honour Thy Father is a poignant look at cultural misunderstanding and its toll on a family’s grief.

The loss of his father was a devastating blow for filmmaker Gerald Auger. The local Anglican priest refused to allow the family to bury their father in the traditional Cree way—with the drum and the smudge—because he was buried on Anglican church property. Gerald sets out to resolve his hurt and anger by seeking official church approval to honour his father traditionally; his path leads him to some unexpected places.


It Had To Be Done by Tessa Desnomie
It Had To Be Done explores the legacy of residential schools through the eyes of two extraordinary women who not only lived it firsthand, but who, as adults, made the surprising choice to return to the school that had affected their lives so profoundly. This intimate and moving film affirms their strength and dignity in standing up and making a difference on their own terms.


Deb-we-win Ge-kend-am-aan, Our Place in the Circle by Lorne Olson
Filmmaker Lorne Olson had a vision of two-spirited people dancing, smiling, laughing; they were moving without shame, at peace with themselves and their place in the world.

Two-spirited people are comprised of a male and female spirit. Historically, they were venerated for their gifts, but such respect isn’t necessarily the case today. Lorne’s vision sparks him to rediscover the strength of the past to better face the challenges of today. This funny and buoyant film documents his touching journey.