Serial Maven Studios has provided Variety with an exclusive look at the trailer for the upcoming documentary “So Surreal: Behind the Masks” by Neil Diamond and Joanne Robertson. The film, set to premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival, explores the connection between Yup’ik and Northwest Coast ceremonial masks and the influence they have had on surrealist artists. The documentary delves into the continuing impact of historical Native American artwork on contemporary artists, as well as the importance of repatriation and Indigenous communities having access to their cultural artifacts kept in museums and private collections.
In the documentary, Cree filmmaker Neil Diamond takes viewers on a journey to understand the anthropological significance of these ceremonial masks and their inspiration on surrealism. What initially begins as an examination of complex issues surrounding cultural ownership evolves into a practical quest to help return a Kwakwa̱ka̱ʼwakw ceremonial mask to its rightful owners. The film sheds light on the intricate process of repatriation and emphasizes the importance of Indigenous communities reclaiming their cultural heritage.
“So Surreal: Behind the Masks” is produced by Rezolution Pictures, an Indigenous-owned production company dedicated to promoting diversity and representation in the entertainment industry. With a track record of acclaimed productions such as “Rumble: The Indians Who Rocked the World” and “Reel Injun,” the company aims to highlight the profound impact of Indigenous art on surrealism through this groundbreaking documentary. Serial Maven Studios’ Solange Attwood expresses excitement about partnering with Rezolution Pictures to spark conversations about cultural ownership and bring this impactful story to audiences worldwide.
Financial support for the documentary was provided by various sources, including the Canadian Media Fund, Quebec Production tax credits, and several other funding bodies. The film has garnered attention for its exploration of the intersection between Native American artwork and surrealism, as well as its advocacy for the repatriation of cultural artifacts to Indigenous communities. By delving into these complex issues, “So Surreal: Behind the Masks” aims to raise awareness about the enduring influence of Indigenous art on the world of contemporary art.
Through the lens of Native American filmmaker Neil Diamond, “So Surreal: Behind the Masks” offers a unique perspective on the intersection of Indigenous culture and artistic movements such as surrealism. The documentary serves as a platform to discuss cultural ownership, the impact of Indigenous art on contemporary art forms, and the ongoing efforts to repatriate cultural artifacts to their rightful communities. With the support of Rezolution Pictures and Serial Maven Studios, this film promises to ignite important conversations about the significance of cultural heritage and representation in the entertainment industry.
Overall, “So Surreal: Behind the Masks” promises to be a thought-provoking and enlightening exploration of the connection between Native American ceremonial masks and surrealism. By intertwining the stories of Indigenous communities reclaiming their cultural artifacts with the influence of historical artwork on modern artists, the documentary sheds light on the enduring impact of Indigenous art on the world of art and culture. With its premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival, this film is poised to spark meaningful discussions about cultural ownership, repatriation, and the representation of Indigenous voices in the entertainment industry.
