Where the Spirit Lives

The film tells the story of Ashtecome, a young First Nations girl who is kidnapped along with other children as part of a Canadian policy aimed at assimilating Indigenous peoples into Western society. Set in 1937, she faces harsh realities at a boarding school where she is pressured to abandon her culture and adopt a new identity. Throughout her ordeal, a sympathetic teacher emerges as a rare ally, offering support against the prevailing bigotry.

As Ashtecome, forced to take the name Amelia, navigates this difficult environment, her determination to maintain her identity and that of her siblings stands out. The film captures the emotional depth of her struggles and highlights the impact of systemic oppression on Indigenous communities in Canada. With a runtime of 96 minutes, Where the Spirit Lives is a significant exploration of cultural heritage and the fight for personal identity.