“Lights, Camera and Action: Tantoo Cardinal” Series 1 Episode 11

Tantoo Cardinal defies stereotypes. In the early 1980s, during a time when very few Indigenous women were seen on the big screen, her acting career met with considerable success. With over 50 films and television programs to her credit, including “Dances with Wolves”, “Legends of the Fall” and “Black Robe”, Cardinal is now one of the most recognized Indigenous actors around. Through her consistent portrayal of strong women, she honors the power of women as a fundamental force that demands respect. After many years in the film industry in Hollywood, Cardinal acknowledged a need to return to her roots in Alberta to reconnect with her own community. In 2004, her debut short story was published in “Our Story'', an anthology of Indigenous writing including such authors as Thomas King and Lee Maracle. Cardinal received a Gemini in 1996 for her work on “North of 60'' and the National Aboriginal Achievement Award in 1998. In March 2006, she received the Sun Hill award from the renowned Harvard Film Archives.

Over three seasons, “Storytellers in Motion'', introduces a number of Canada's Indigenous storytellers. Sharing excerpts from their films, these storytellers comment on their work and explore their creative voices.

Produced by: Jeff Bear, Marianne Jones, Urban Rez Productions