On January 23, 2025, filmmaker and writer Julian Brave NoiseCat achieved a groundbreaking milestone in cinematic history. His documentary, SUGARCANE, earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Documentary Feature, making him the first Native filmmaker to be nominated in this category. This historic moment marks a major step forward for Indigenous representation in the film industry, amplifying Native storytelling on a global scale.
In this blog, we’ll dive into Julian Brave NoiseCat’s journey, the impact of SUGARCANE, and what this milestone means for Indigenous filmmakers.
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Who is Julian Brave NoiseCat?
Julian Brave NoiseCat is a writer, filmmaker, and Indigenous advocate whose work focuses on Indigenous rights, history, and storytelling. He is a member of the Canim Lake Band Tsq’escen and a descendant of the Lil’wat Nation. His journalism and activism have appeared in major outlets like The New York Times, The Atlantic, and The Guardian, making him a powerful voice in both media and Indigenous advocacy.
Now, with his debut documentary SUGARCANE, NoiseCat has made history by bringing Indigenous narratives to one of the most prestigious stages in filmmaking—the Academy Awards.
What is SUGARCANE About
SUGARCANE is a powerful documentary that delves into the history of Indigenous residential schools in Canada and the United States. It highlights the stories of survivors, uncovering truths about the generational trauma inflicted by these institutions. The film presents a deeply personal yet universally important narrative, shedding light on the resilience and strength of Indigenous communities.
Why SUGARCANE Matters
- Indigenous Representation: The film amplifies Indigenous voices and ensures their stories are told by Native filmmakers.
- Truth and Reconciliation: It contributes to ongoing discussions about historical injustices and healing.
- Cinematic Excellence: The film’s storytelling and cinematography have earned it critical acclaim, culminating in this historic Oscar nomination.
The Road to the Oscars
The journey of SUGARCANE to the Academy Awards has been nothing short of remarkable.
Red Nation International Film Festival Recognition
In November 2024, SUGARCANE won Best Documentary Feature at the 29th Red Nation International Film Festival (RNIFF), which celebrates Indigenous storytelling in film.
National Geographic Partnership
Shortly after its RNIFF win, National Geographic picked up SUGARCANE for screening in November 2024, further amplifying its reach. This partnership helped bring the film’s message to a global audience, paving the way for its Oscar nomination in early 2025.
Historic Academy Award Nomination
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences officially nominated SUGARCANE for Best Documentary Feature, making Julian Brave NoiseCat the first Native filmmaker to receive this honor.
The Significance of This Moment
Julian Brave NoiseCat’s Oscar nomination is more than just a personal achievement—it represents a shift in the film industry toward more inclusive storytelling.
Why This Nomination Matters for Indigenous Filmmakers
- Increased Visibility: Indigenous narratives are gaining recognition in mainstream media.
- Breaking Barriers: This nomination opens doors for future Native filmmakers to enter the global stage.
- Inspiration for the Next Generation: Young Indigenous creatives now have a role model to look up to in NoiseCat.
This milestone challenges Hollywood’s long history of underrepresentation and paves the way for more Indigenous-led films to be produced, funded, and celebrated.
What’s Next for Julian Brave NoiseCat?
With SUGARCANE now in the running for an Academy Award, Julian Brave NoiseCat is on track to make an even greater impact in the world of filmmaking. His work is a testament to the power of storytelling in reshaping narratives, confronting history, and creating lasting change.
Whether he takes home the Oscar or not, his contribution to Indigenous cinema is already groundbreaking.
Final Thoughts
Julian Brave NoiseCat’s SUGARCANE has already made history, and its Academy Award nomination marks a turning point for Indigenous storytelling. As the world watches the Oscars, one thing is certain—this is just the beginning of a new era for Native filmmakers and storytellers.
How You Can Support Indigenous Storytelling:
✅ Watch and share SUGARCANE
✅ Follow and support Indigenous filmmakers
✅ Educate yourself on Native history and representation in media
Do you think SUGARCANE will win the Oscar? Let us know in the comments!
