SPEEDWELL Contemporary is pleased to present the animated film adaptation of ‘Mary and Molly’ a 20 minute long animated film based on the 2016 play of the same title by noted Penobscot Nation Tribal Elder, activist, author, Donna Loring.
“The fascinating piece to this film is Molly Molasses taking Mary back in time to Bangor in the 1800's and teaching her about her Penobscot heritage. The film is about the taking of Indian Children from their homes by the State but is also about identity and if Mary will recognize her Penobscot heritage.” - Donna Loring.
The film follows Mary, a young African American woman living in Bangor, Maine. She finds a letter from her mother that tells of her Penobscot Indian heritage and the decision that was made by her parents to keep that heritage hidden. After opening the letter on her 21st Birthday, Mary goes to the Bangor Public Library and learns of Molly Molasses, her Penobscot Ancestor, and connects with her Penobscot ancestry for the first time.
The film features the creative work of many indigenous creators and collaborators; the artwork was created by Penobscot visual artists Shannon Sockalexis and Ann Pollard-Ranco, featuring music by Mali Obomsawin. Casting and dialog direction by Margo Lukens.
This project was made possible with support of grants from the Maine Community Foundation, the OAK Foundation, the Glickman Lauder Foundation and Maine Humanities Council.
Panelists for post-film discussion:
Donna Loring, film director and moderator
Maulian (Dana) Bryant, Tribal Ambassador for the Penobscot Nation and President of the Board of Directors for the Wabanaki Alliance
Maria Giourad, Executive Director of Wabanaki Reach
Shannon Sockalexis, artist and illustrator of Mary and Molly
Ann Pollard Ranco, artist and illustrator of Mary and Molly
Running Time: 20 min.
MPAA Rating: NR
Language: English
Director: David Camlin, Donna Loring