WaaPaKe (Tomorrow)

WaaPaKe is a Canadian documentary that explores themes of transformation, love, and resilience. Filmed in front of a green screen, the project uses an Indigenous perspective to examine the experiences of residential school survivors and their families. Through a series of candid and compassionate interviews, the film looks at the process of healing and the nature of intergenerational trauma. Five individuals, including friends and family members, share their direct or indirect experiences with these systemic struggles.

The film was directed and written by Jules Arita Koostachin. Produced by the National Film Board of Canada, the documentary features a cast appearing as themselves, including Rita Okimawinninew, Asivak Koostachin, Joseph Dandurand, Maisie Smith, Pawaken Koostachin-Chakasim, and Jules A. Koostachin. The finished work has a runtime of 80 minutes and was released on March 23, 2024.