1996
Daughter of the Sun
Synopsis
In the short film "Daughter of the Sun" (1996), directed by Anita Killi, a young Sami boy dreams of the traditional autumn reindeer hunt. His world changes when he hears a captivating joik—a form of Sami singing—and discovers its source: the ethereal Daughter of the Sun. To keep her with him, he must hide her for three days and nights without lighting a fire inside his tent. However, on a cloudy night, he lights a fire, and her father, the star, sees her through the cracks in the clouds and takes her home. Although the boy loses the Daughter of the Sun, he learns to master the power of the joik, gains a large herd of reindeer, and experiences the greatest love of all.
Mission
"Daughter of the Sun" seeks to immerse viewers in the rich tapestry of Sami culture, emphasizing the profound connection between humanity and nature. Through the young boy's journey, the film highlights the transformative power of traditional practices like the joik, illustrating how cultural heritage can lead to personal growth and a deeper understanding of the world. By weaving elements of Sami mythology and tradition, the film aims to foster appreciation for indigenous cultures and the timeless lessons they offer.
About the film
"Daughter of the Sun" (1996) is a 12-minute animated short film directed by Anita Killi, based on the book by Marry Ailonieida Somby. The film uses cut-out animation to tell a story rooted in Sami culture and mythology, capturing the deep connection between the Sami people, their traditions, and the natural world.
Set during the traditional autumn reindeer hunt, the narrative follows a young Sami boy who encounters the Daughter of the Sun, an ethereal figure tied to Sami legend. The story explores themes of love, cultural heritage, and the spiritual power of the joik, a traditional Sami form of singing. Through visually rich animation and storytelling, the film immerses viewers in the beauty and depth of Sami traditions, offering a window into their cultural legacy.
Credits
DIRECTOR, SCREENPLAY, DESIGN, CAMERA, ANIMATION: Anita Killi
BASED ON THE BOOK: DAUGHTER OF THE SUN by Marry Ailonieida Somby
VOICES AND JOIK: Mikkel Gaup & Silja Somby
PRODUCTION ASSISTANTS:Toril Slokvik & Ingrid Marie Lindberg
EDITOR: Pål Gengenbach
MUSIC AND SOUND: Roger Ludvigsen & Bjørn Ole Rasch
PRODUCER: Lars Tømmerbakke, Studio Magica AS (Cinema Nord)
ANIMATION STUDIO: Trollfilm AS
PREVIOUS DISTRIBUTED BY: The Norwegian Film Institute. Please contact Trollfilm if you are interested in distributing this film in your marked.
Animated film, 12 min., 35mm, color
TROLLFILM AS © 1996
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