Cameras are rolling in Winnipeg on the directorial feature debuts of filmmakers Ryan Cooper and Eva Thomas.

Cooper and Thomas are writers and directors on the Indigenous-led drama Aberdeen, which is in production in Winnipeg and its surrounding areas into October.

Aberdeen is produced by Farpoint Films and Cooper’s banner Back to Space Productions, and is part of a first-look production deal between the two companies, which was signed last year. Farpoint’s Kyle Bornais and Kathleen Easton are producers on the film alongside Cooper.

The drama follows an Indigenous woman who is forced to relocate to Winnipeg as a climate change refugee, where she must come to terms with generations of trauma within her family.

Aberdeen stars Gail Maurice (Bones of Crows), Billy Merasty (Acting Good), Jennifer Podemski (Reservation Dogs), Liam Stewart-Kanigan (Orphan: First Kill) and Ryan Black (Moccasin Flats).

The film is produced with the support of Telefilm Canada, Manitoba Film & Music, the Indigenous Screen Office, and tax credits. Distribution for the film will be handled by Farpoint Distribution.

“This script is so personal and precious to me, and it was important to be surrounded by creative artists I trust to bring this film to life,” said Playback 10 to Watch alum Cooper in a statement. “This is not only my story, really, it’s everyone’s.”

Images courtesy of Farpoint Films; pictured (L-R): Gail Maurice, Billy Merasty and Jennifer Podemski