Cheyanna Kidd and her husband Kurtis have overcome COVID-19 restrictions while producing an animated short film. (submitted photo/Tiffani Lee)

By Angie Rolheiser

Like and Follow

Filmmaker from Tisdale produces film in hopes of fostering connection in youth

Jun 4, 2020 | 11:30 AM

A young filmmaker originally from Tisdale is hoping to teach young people about real connection in a time of technology addiction.

Cheyanna Kid created her animated film with a $10,000 grant through of the Youth Community Stories Program from Reel Youth Canada and TELUS STORYHIVE.

The film is called Like and Follow.

“Our story is about the beautiful journey of our lead First Nations character Nuna and her date Max,” Kidd said. “The two teens match online and plan a coffee date but a mischievous raven takes Max’s phone. The raven becomes their guide on a massive mountain where they overcome obstacles and reconnect with the world around them.”

At the end of film, the two reach the phone at the peak of the mountain where they choose to be present in the moment instead of on their phones.

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Kidd along with her partner and husband, Kurtis both hope to inspire other young creators to tell stories they care about.

“Our hope is that the film will spread a message of hope, acceptance and love,” Kidd said.

On top of that, they hope to inspire others to get off their phones and find their unique place in the world, and also to inspire other Saskatchewan grants and funding in the future for other similar programs.

Working on the film together has posed many challenges for the couple especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Kidd had a different short film in progress but once COVID-19 hit, the young filmmakers got creative and found new ways, like using animation while staying safe and distant. The pandemic also gave them the idea to focus on the role technology plays in relationships and what real connections looks like.

“We learned a lot about each other’s patience, skills, coping mechanisms our own struggles and downfalls but also unexpected strengths and brilliances that have come to the surface,” Kidd said.

Kidd is currently attending school in Kelowna where a friend inspired and encouraged Kidd and her group to apply for the grant.

Although Kidd is at school in British Columbia, she credits her home for many teachings.

“I was blessed to grow up in a culturally diverse community and a school that allowed me to take native studies, Aboriginal education and attend powwows and so much more,” Kidd said. “I recognize that It is our duty as Canadians to help keep that culture alive, to give them a voice and make them seen.”

Kidd hired eight Indigenous artists from across Canada to be part of the film.

Max and Nuna are the main characters in the animated shortfilm, Like and Follow. (Submitted photo/Tiffani Lee)

“I have made sure that our character Nuna portrays them in a respectful way,” Kidd said.

Like and Follow is still in production but will be released this fall.

The Youth Communities Story Program is committed to increasing youth connection to local communities through film and providing an outlet to express voices and opinions.

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angie.rolheiser@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @Angie_Rolheiser