Discover the Magic of ‘Little Deer’: An Engaging Film Review You Can’t Miss – Eye For Film

Across its 131-year history, Canada’s residential school system aimed to erase First Nations children’s cultures, forcing them into European norms. While the system housed between 20 and 90 schools at any time, with some built like prisons and others resembling large houses, many children felt trapped in a different way—inside their own thoughts.

A poignant short film, Jon Elliott’s Little Deer, featured at the ImagineNative 2025 festival, tells the story of two girls who decide to escape the Mohawk Institute Residential School, known as the Mush Hole, in Brantford, Ontario. This institution ran for over a century, with more than 15,000 children from nearly 70 Indigenous communities forced to attend between 1828 and 1970. The last school closed in 1997. Although the film is fictional, it is inspired by real survivors’ experiences, which adds power and authenticity to the narrative.

Sue (played by Kiera Van Der Ploeg) wants to escape simply to spend Christmas with her mother, fully aware that recapture and punishment await. In contrast, Marie (Isla Grant) grapples with deeper fears. She hasn’t heard from her runaway sister, Dawn, for months and feels guilty for not trying to escape earlier herself. Marie clings to a small doll, hoping to give it to Dawn if they reunite.

The film follows the girls closely as they navigate snowy woods, encounter deer, and attempt a dangerous river crossing. This intense moment, filled with uncertainty, builds suspense as they try to avoid detection while traveling at night.

Sue’s brash confidence contrasts with Marie’s anxiety, giving the film emotional depth. When Marie has a panic attack, Sue instinctively knows how to help her. Yet, it becomes clear that Marie’s true fear isn’t the freezing water but the possibility of letting her sister down, which haunts her.

The young actors deliver layered performances that convey the psychological toll of the residential school system. In just half an hour, Little Deer explores the long-lasting effects of trauma and separation within families. The film immerses viewers in the tension of the 1960s, capturing the era’s essence while addressing important themes of loss and resilience.

According to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, nearly 150,000 First Nations children attended these schools. The legacy of this system continues to impact Indigenous communities today. The emotional weight of Little Deer invites audiences to reflect on the past while honoring those still affected by it.

In a world striving to understand diverse histories, this film deserves a broader viewership—its story is more relevant than ever. You can explore more about this historical context in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission report for further insights into the impact of residential schools on Indigenous peoples.

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