Mother of Many Children

In this first feature from legendary documentarian Alanis Obomsawin, she examines the role of motherhood in Indigenous society and how it has developed in the modern era. In examining the lives of women from birth to old age and all maturing in between, Obomsawin gives an intimate view into the customs, cultures and oral traditions that define these matriarchal societies. Filled with compelling emotional moments, this documentary is a powerful and moving experience.

As the first feature length documentary by an Indigenous woman, Mother of Many Children represents a turning point in Indigenous film, as well as beginning the career of one of Canada’s most important and iconic filmmakers.