On the surface, Sweet Summer Pow Wow is an Indigenous coming of age story about young love, but in a broader sense it is a movie about the universal themes of overcoming your fears and discovering who you are meant to be. Set against the backdrop of the summer Pow Wow circuit, the movie explores those themes within the context of Indigenous culture and pride. Unlike many stories about contemporary Indigenous peoples, our main characters do not struggle with their Indigeneity, but strive to become better versions of their Indigenous self and improve their communities. In this way, the film crafts a holistic love story, with our young protagonists not only falling in love with each other, but also falling in love with themselves.

Young love is a universal theme that crosses cultural boundaries. Every human being can recall how their first love fit within the context of their family, peer group, culture, and social standing. Was that first love from the other side of the tracks? From a different religion? Race? Did their friends and family attempt to break up their romance?

These are the universally identifiable themes that Jinny and Riley must contend with in Sweet Summer Pow Wow. In addition to this central love story, every character in this film is attempting to honor their passions, hopes, and dreams while also struggling with self- doubt. Just like the characters in this story, we have all faltered or given up because we did not believe that we were “good enough.”

We have all imagined going back in time to change the past, or even the present, in some grand way, to conquer our shame and be rewarded with the adulation of those that once shunned us. Although this story is culturally specific, redemption is a universal theme and one that people from all walks of life can relate to.

Overcoming one’s past and achieving a place of respect amongst your people (or tribe) is a prevalent theme in the film. Another underlying central idea in the film, is maintaining culture and tradition. Just like the communities featured in Sweet Summer Pow Wow, Indigenous cultures across the globe are struggling to hold on to their cultural way of life.

Widespread poverty amongst Indigenous Nations and the loss of their traditional ways has led to numerous societal issues in Indigenous communities. This film will address these serious issues with dignity but also in a way that is compelling and engaging for a broad demographic. Humour is a universal language. The easiest way to address these important themes is with a funny and entertaining story.

Audiences are more open to receiving serious messages if they can laugh and be entertained during the process. This feature film will not only endeavor to educate people about the struggles within Indigenous communities, but it will also awaken people’s understanding of the strength that persists in Indigenous communities. Through our characters’ deep connection to their traditions and ceremonies, we will demonstrate the strength and resurgence of Indigenous pride that is spreading throughout North America today.

This cinematic tale will show that our people are not just surviving, we are thriving, and becoming a powerful force in mainstream society, not by assimilation but through the practice of our culture and traditions. Unfortunately, far too many people are either unaware, or refuse to believe, that the great Indigenous traditions of our past continue to guide us through our contemporary lives.

Our stories, songs, and customs, still play a vital role in our communities and we still draw strength from the traditions of our ancestors. These same traditions and philosophies that enabled Indigenous communities to survive for thousands of years, even before first contact, continue to shape our communities and ensure our survival well into the 21st century and beyond. Through romance, laughter, and poignant character development, Sweet Summer Pow Wow will explore these themes of in an entertaining way, rarely seen in movies about Indigenous people.