Calling all cinephiles and culture enthusiasts. The 6th Annual Sámi Film Festival returns in February, offering a captivating window into the world of Sámi cinema. Mark your calendars for in-person screenings in Seattle and New York from February 9-10, or join the festival virtually from the comfort of your home between February 8-11.

This year’s festival, presented by the National Nordic Museum and Scandinavia House, follow Sámi National Day (February 6), making it a perfect opportunity to honor and celebrate the rich heritage of the Sámi people, the indigenous inhabitants of Sápmi, encompassing parts of Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia.

Guest curator Liselotte Wajstedt, a Sámi filmmaker herself, has curated a program brimming with diverse offerings. Immerse yourself in newly released and classic features, documentaries, and short films that explore a spectrum of themes, from contemporary life and cultural identity to historical struggles and ancestral connections to the land.

Sámi Film Festival Highlights

Je’vida (2023): Witness the power of family bonds in this poignant feature, the first film ever made in the Skolt Sámi language.

Áfruvvá – Mermaid (2022): Embark on a fantastical journey with a Sámi sea-being yearning for connection.

The Daughters of the Midnight Sun/Overlander (1985): Delve into the complexities of cultural transformation through the lens of Sámi women.

Njuokčamat/The Tongues (2019): Witness the fierce bond of sisterhood in this suspenseful tale of revenge.

Give Us Our Skeletons! (2000): Confront the legacy of racism and oppression in this powerful documentary.

Join the Conversation:

Beyond film screenings, the festival fosters deeper understanding through panel discussions and Q&As with filmmakers. These sessions offer an amazing opportunity to engage with the Sámi community, learn about their stories, and celebrate their artistic expression.

Whether you’re a seasoned film buff or simply curious about Sámi culture, don’t miss this chance to be transported to Sápmi through the magic of cinema!

For more information and the complete festival schedule, visit National Nordic Museum. See you there!