Totem Talk Poster

Totem Talk 1997

22 min📅 1997-04-03

Dive into *Totem Talk (1997)*, a groundbreaking animated short that blends traditional Northwestern Indigenous spirituality with cutting-edge digital artistry.

Director: Annie Frazier Henry

Cast

Morgan Rose
Teen
David Thomas
Teen
Michael Sherwood
Teen
Stella Johnson
Totem (voice)
Sam Bob
Sam Bob
Totem (voice)
Chief Henry Seaweed
Dancer
Jason Taylor
Dancer
J. Bradley Hunt
Self
Sean Hunt
Self

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Totem Talk (1997) about?

*Totem Talk (1997)* is a surreal animated short that follows three urban Indigenous teens who are transported to a magical world by a mystical raven. There, they meet a living totem pole with animated characters that become their teachers, guiding them through a transformative journey rooted in tradition and cultural rediscovery.

Who directed Totem Talk?

Annie Frazier Henry directed *Totem Talk (1997)*, bringing her visionary storytelling to this unique blend of animation and documentary.

Who stars in Totem Talk?

The film stars Morgan Rose, David Thomas, Michael Sherwood, Stella Johnson, and Sam Bob, with special contributions from Chief Henry Seaweed.

Is Totem Talk (1997) worth watching?

*Totem Talk (1997)* is a hidden gem worth exploring for its innovative animation and meaningful exploration of Indigenous themes. While it's unrated, its 22-minute runtime and unique blend of genres make it a compelling watch for fans of animated shorts and cultural narratives.

How long is Totem Talk?

The runtime for *Totem Talk (1997)* is 22 minutes.

About Totem Talk (1997) — A Surreal Animated Journey Through Indigenous Tradition

Dive into *Totem Talk (1997)*, a groundbreaking animated short that blends traditional Northwestern Indigenous spirituality with cutting-edge digital artistry. Directed by Annie Frazier Henry, this surreal film follows three urban Indigenous teens whisked away by a mystical raven to a fantastical realm where a sentient totem pole comes to life. The pole's animated characters—a wise raven, a playful frog, and a gentle bear—transform into their mentors, guiding the teens through a journey of cultural rediscovery and connection. With its vibrant visuals and deep-rooted themes, *Totem Talk (1997)* is more than just a film; it's a celebration of heritage, tradition, and the enduring power of storytelling.

Featuring a special interview with Heiltsuk artist J. Bradley Hunt, whose work inspired the totem's design, this 22-minute short film stands out for its innovative animation and heartfelt exploration of Indigenous identity. The atmospheric storytelling and rich symbolism create an immersive experience that lingers long after the credits roll. Whether you're a fan of animation, documentary-style cinema, or Indigenous narratives, *Totem Talk (1997)* offers a unique and thought-provoking cinematic experience.