Welcome
We are an anthropological digital video production unit at the University
of British Columbia in Vancouver. Our primary focus is film production and research. The Film Unit draws
upon the combined strengths of anthropologists, filmmakers, students,
and community members.
We use the language of documentary video to explore issues of environmentally
and socially responsible resource use that prioritizes collaborative community-based
practise. The videos are an active research tool; a catalyst for conversation
and for deeper enquiry. They are also end products - broadcast-quality
videos for use in highschool and university classrooms, conferences, workshops,
and film festivals.
Many of our films are accompanied by turn-key
curriculum kits that fulfill BC highschool intended learning outcomes.
Current Projects
Basketball Warriors - stories of aboriginal basketball on Canada's west coast. Basketball
is a big thing in most coastal aboriginal vilages in British Columbia and Alaska. Every community has at least
one gym where you can hear the sounds of the ball bouncing, kids shouting and screaming, and the swish of the
ball through the hoop. This film tells the story of basketball players from Gitxaala Nation, the importance
of the game, it's history on the north caost, and tales of big games past and present at the BC All Native
Basketball Tournament held each year for more than 50 years in Prince Rupert, BC.
Equipment & Facilities
The Film Unit has a production lab in the Anthropology-Sociology Building.
The lab is dedicated to core productions of the the Film Unit and the
teaching of
ANTH478 (when offered). The Film Unit has HD and SD digital tape
camera kits that members of the film unit and associated members of the Department of Anthropology may use.
Priority of use: (1) Core Film Unit projects (2) ANTH 478 projects (3) Film Unit member projects
(4) Department of Anthropology member projects. Details on lab access and equipment bookings can be
found on the
services page.
Film Unit Membership
Interested in joining the FIlm Unit? Check our
people page for details.