Sep 8, 2023

Hungary selects four souls of the Coyotes - a climate crisis film for the international feature-length Oscar race.

Hungary selected Aron Gowder's 4 Souls of Coyotes as the representative of the 2024 international Feature Oscar Race.

In this film, a group of Native American 10-year-olds confront an oil pipeline project crew near their ancestral lands. Tribal grandfather reminded other characters and spectators that the main challenge of humanity is universal and we need to find our place in the great circle of creatures

4 Souls of Coyotes premiered at Annecy on 6 May and won the jury Prize. He later won the Best Animated Film at the Shanghai International Film Festival, the Creative Achievement Award at the Arizona International Film Festival and the Grand Prix at the New Media Film Festival in Los Angeles.

Gauder directed and wrote the film, which was executive produced by Réka Temple of Budapest-based Cinemon Entertainment.

Explaining the message of the film, Gauder said:

We wanted to show the aspects of creation and existence that are little known to Europeans. The film warns that humans are errant creatures who are also responsible for other creatures. We cannot consume endlessly; we must also keep our desires in check, because if we do not, the created world will be in danger of destruction.

The temple added:

Having done in-depth research, we felt responsible for the indigenous culture and wanted every part of the film to remain authentic and reflect our respect. The message of the film aims to be as inclusive as possible, inviting all of creation into a circle of cooperative dialogue. We know that our film is a statement, not an attack on government policy; It is by far an ode to the wisdom of nature and tribal peoples.

To ensure the authenticity of the film, Gauder worked closely with Charles Cambridge (Ph.D., University of Colorado), an American Indian consultant and registered member of the Navajo Tribe. The film was also heavily influenced by such native American female musicians as Ulali, Mariee Siou and Joanne Shenandoah.

After watching the finished film, Cambridge said:

I'm surprised by what I've seen. Step into the wonders of the tribal universe with a blend of the best forms of artistic storytelling, and the Four souls of the coyotes are a gift to the wonders of humanity and the mysteries of the tribal peoples.

Gebeka International deals with worldwide sales of the film. It is not currently scheduled to be screened in the U.S., but it is scheduled to be screened at the Edmonton International Film Festival on 9/26.