Knowledge Network orders three B.C. documentaries

The projects under the B.C. public broadcaster include The Salmon's Call from producer-director Joy Haskell.

Public broadcaster Knowledge Network has given the greenlight to three documentary projects by local B.C. filmmakers, which are now in production.

The Salmon’s Call, directed by Joy Haskell of Tl’azt’en Nation, delves into the spiritual connections between wild salmon and First Nations communities in B.C., highlighting the impact that fish farming is having and looking to the protective measures taken by various communities to save their way of life. Haskell, Andrew Williamson and Henrik Meyer are producing.

Wədzih Nəne, meanwhile, is produced and directed by Luke Gleeson and explores the impact of encroachment and development on the Tsay Keh Dene nation – changes that are forever altering once pristine areas that host an abundance of wildlife, including the Chase caribou.

Finally, Up in the Clouds, Down in the Valley, directed by Carmen Pollard, follows non-visual artist Carmen Papalia, showcasing his innovative collective approach to accessibility, addressing vision loss, illness and healing.

“These distinctive projects explore our vital relationships with nature and each other,” said Patrice Ramsay, senior manager, independent production, in a statement. “This is a challenging time for one-off documentary production in Canada and, we’re thrilled to be working with talented B.C. filmmakers to bring these authentic, emotional and insightful stories to our viewers.”

Photo by Solara Dang; pictured (L-R): Joy Haskell and Richard Tran