SCREENING IN THE BERNARD OSHER FOUNDATION AUDITORIUM
20 minutes. Not Rated. Directed by Donna Loring and David Camlin. In English.
Note: This film contains offensive language and references sexual assault. It may not be suitable for children.
This screening will be followed by a panel discussion centered around the film, native issues of sovereignty, and child welfare. Information about the panelists can be found below.
SPEEDWELL Contemporary is pleased to present the animated film adaptation of ‘Mary and Molly’ a 20 minute long animated film based on the 2016 play of the same title by noted Penobscot Nation Tribal Elder, activist, author, Donna Loring.
“The fascinating piece to this film is Molly Molasses taking Mary back in time to Bangor in the 1800's and teaching her about her Penobscot heritage. The film is about the taking of Indian Children from their homes by the State but is also about identity and if Mary will recognize her Penobscot heritage.” - Donna Loring.
The film follows Mary, a young African-American woman living in Bangor, Maine. She finds a letter from her mother that tells of her Penobscot Indian heritage and the decision that her parents made many years ago to bring her up with only the knowledge of her African-American heritage. After opening the letter on her 21st Birthday, Mary goes to the Bangor Public Library and learns of Molly Molasses, her Penobscot Ancestor, and connects with her Penobscot ancestry for the first time. The film tackles Black and Brown issues of race, heritage, and the choosing of identity.
The film, directed by David Camlin and Donna Loring with casting and dialog direction by Margo Lukens, features the creative work of indigenous creators and collaborators. Original artwork was created by Penobscot visual artists Shannon Sockalexis and Ann Pollard-Ranco, and music by Mali Obomsawin (Odanak Abenaki) scores the film.
This project was made possible with support of grants from the Maine Community Foundation, the OAK Foundation, the Glickman Lauder Foundation and Maine Humanities Council.
Panelists for post-film discussion:
Donna Loring, film director and moderator
Maulian (Dana) Bryant, Tribal Ambassador for the Penobscot Nation and President of the Board of Directors for the Wabanaki Alliance
Robin Talbot, Associate Director, Stonecoast MFA in Creative Writing
Shannon Sockalexis, artist and illustrator of Mary and Molly
Ann Pollard Ranco, artist and illustrator of Mary and Molly