In the Land of the War Canoes

Edward S. Curtis, 1914, 47 min., bw

still from the movie

Best known as one of the premier photographers of the 20th century, Edward S. Curtis devoted his life to documenting the disappearing world of the North American Indian. In this film, originally entitled In the Land of the Headhunters, Curtis retold a tribal story of love and revenge among the Kwakiutl Indians of Vancouver Island. Curtis spent three years with the Kwakiutl to meticulously recreate their way of life before contact with the white man. In addition to the magnificent painted war canoes of the title, the film features totem poles and wonderful native costumes, dancing, and rituals––including a powerful scene of a vision quest.

The original title of the film was In the Land of the Headhunters.

In 1972, the only surviving print of this film was carefully restored and an original soundtrack of music and chants was recorded by the Kwakiutls themselves. The film presents a magnificent image of a lost world.

Reviews

"deserves to take its rightful place alongside other classic
pioneers of ethnographic cinematography."
— American Anthropologist.

Screening Event

The film will be introduced by Leonard Williams, artist, member of the Kwakiutl First Nation, and resident of the Sunshine Coast. After the film, members of the Kwakiutl Nation from Vancouver Island will make a presentation describing the present-day world of the Kwakiutls.