FESTIVAL PREMIERE
Qaqsoss naka Wahantuhsis (Fox & the Tiny Demon)
Director: Tara Audibert
Qaqsoss naka Wahantuhsis is an animated allegory about Qaqsoss, a fox who is haunted by Wahantuhsis, a tiny demon. Set in an enchanted forest, the film explores themes of mental illness, trauma, and generational pain through Qaqsoss’ struggles with both her inner demons and the mischievous demon that follows her. As Qaqsoss faces her fears, she discovers resilience and growth. Ultimately, the story intertwines Indigenous culture and personal experience, showcasing the importance of self-healing and the understanding of others. The film, told in Wolastoqey, is a poignant exploration of survival and connection.
CAST & CREDITS
Director
Tara Audibert
Writer
Tara Audibert
Producer
Tara Audibert
Key Cast
Carole Polchies, Adrian Francis, Rodney Bear, Danielle Alain, Noel Bear, Alivia Bear, Shea Michaud, Tara Audibert
DIRECTORS STATEMENT
Qaqsoss naka Wahantuhsis is a deeply personal exploration of trauma, mental illness, and resilience. Through the relationship between Qaqsoss (Fox) and Wahantuhsis (Tiny Demon), the film mirrors the struggles of living with one’s own disabilities while supporting others with their own. It’s a reflection of my journey, shaped by both my personal experiences with ADHD, depression & anxiety and the generational trauma passed down caused by the residential school system.
This film offers a unique, visual allegory of how we navigate difficult relationships that challenge us, even when we feel powerless. It’s about confronting our inner demons and understanding that healing comes from within. By incorporating Wolastoqey language and traditions, I aim to contribute to the preservation of Indigenous culture while telling a story of universal relevance.
Through animation, I hope to inspire empathy and encourage dialogue on mental health, disability, and generational trauma, while fostering greater understanding within both Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.
DIRECTORS BIO
Tara Audibert is a multidisciplinary artist & filmmaker with 25+yrs experience in animation, comics and fine art. She combines Traditional First Nations Art and Storytelling with contemporary design and digital mediums.
Tara is the creator/writer/director/producer of Lil Glooscap and the Legends of Turtle Island (2022), and currently in production of the feature film Qaqsoss naka Wahuntuhsis (Fox and the Tiny Demon) to be released in 2024. Award-winning works include animated short films I am the Warrior (2021), The Importance of Dreaming (2017), comics This Place: 150 Years Retold (2019), and Lost Innocence (2011) which has been placed in the Archives of Canada, Nitap: Legends of the First Nations a storytelling app. She has worked in TV animation on Gemini award winning Oliver’s Adventures (2002-2005), Delilah & Julius (2005-2008), Johnny Test (2009).
Books include Loaf the Cat goes to the Pow Wow (2023), the award winning Jo Jo Makoons series(2021-2023), Fiddleheads for Fox (2019) and Moonbeam (2020). She is of hybrid Wolastoqey-French heritage residing in Sunny Corner, NB.
Returning Filmmaker
