Hi-Ho Mistahey! facts for kids

Hi-Ho Mistahey! is a 2013 documentary film from the National Film Board of Canada. It was made by director Alanis Obomsawin. The movie tells the story of Shannen's Dream. This was a special effort started by Shannen Koostachin. She was a Cree teenager from Attawapiskat. Shannen wanted to get better schools and learning chances for young people from First Nations communities.

About the Film

The film Hi-Ho Mistahey! first showed on September 7, 2013. This happened at the 2013 Toronto International Film Festival. It was a big event for movies. The film was very popular with viewers. It came in second place for the festival's People's Choice Award. This award is for documentaries. Another film called The Square won first place.

What "Hi-Ho Mistahey!" Means

The title of the film, "Hi-Ho Mistahey!", comes from the Cree language. It means "I love you forever." Director Alanis Obomsawin learned about Shannen Koostachin's story from Cindy Blackstock. Cindy is an activist who works for children's rights.

How the Film Was Made

Alanis Obomsawin was working on this film in Attawapiskat. During that time, there were some big problems in the community. These problems were about homes and basic services. So, Alanis paused Hi-Ho Mistahey!. She made another film first, called The People of the Kattawapiskak River. After that, she finished Hi-Ho Mistahey!.

Film Awards and Recognition

Hi-Ho Mistahey! was nominated for an important award. It was a shortlisted nominee for the Canadian Screen Award. This award was for Best Feature Length Documentary. It was part of the 2nd Canadian Screen Awards ceremony.