Two Soft Things, Two Hard Things

Two Soft Things, Two Hard Things is a poignant and thought-provoking documentary that exploded onto screens in 2016 and left audiences worldwide profoundly moved. The film features renowned figures like Jack Anawak, Alethea Arnaquq-Baril, and Allison Brewer, providing compelling perspectives on a lesser-known aspect of Inuit culture.

The film illustrates a unique journey of exploration into the seldom-discussed narrative of LGBTQ+ individuals within the context of indigenous communities. Characters are compelling, led by the likes of Jack Anawak, whose nuanced performance guides the viewer on an exploratory discussion on the essence of identity within the backdrop of the rich Inuit culture.

Alethea Arnaquq-Baril adds depth to the storytelling, her presence on-screen undeniably powerful and reflective of the immense depth within the narratives. As an Inuk director, she is known for her past documentary work, which focuses on social and environmental issues affecting Inuit people, lending a unique authenticity that aligns seamlessly with this production.

Coupled with the involvement of Allison Brewer, the film unravels the untold stories of LGBTQ+ Inuits in a repressive society traditionally bound by strong religious beliefs. Brewer, renowned for her past work on LGBTQ+ advocacy, helps encourage dialogue about cultural acceptance and adaptation.

Set against the stark, icy background of Nunavut, Canada, Two Soft Things, Two Hard Things dives deep into the intricate cultural tapestry of the Inuit community and highlights the journey of indigenous individuals reconciling their personal identity with their distinct traditions.

The film further delves into the impact of past colonization and forced Christianization on the community, highlighting how these events have influenced their attitudes towards sexuality and identity. It speaks powerfully and intimately to the legacy of colonial impact, forming a deeply impactful narrative.

Tracing the revival of the once-flourishing two-spirit tradition within the Inuit community, the film allows audiences a glimpse into how suppressed traditions are being rediscovered and embraced in contemporary society. It highlights individual and collective processes of healing, acceptance, and transformation.

More than just a logline and a series of events, this documentary is a personal journey for many, presenting a safe space where subjects could tell their stories. The film puts the viewer in an empathetic role, standing witness to the individuals' re-awakening to their cultural identity, which includes an affirming acceptance of LGBTQ+ existence within their community.

The directors, Mark Kenneth Woods and Michael Yerxa, skillfully maneuver the sensitive topic by balancing delicate narrative storytelling with poignant visuals, further complemented by the movie's authentic dialogue. The use of wide, sweeping shots of the stark Nunavut landscape acts as a stark symbol of the isolation and loneliness many Inuits feel coming to terms with their sexual identities in a remote community.

Through intimate interviews and honest narratives, the stories showcased in the Two Soft Things, Two Hard Things are simultaneously heart-wrenching and inspiring, creating a compelling snapshot of the universal human experience of owning one's identity in a societal context.

The film does not shy away from sensitive topics but instead tackles them head-on with sensitivity and respect. As the title implies – a translation of the Inuktitut word for gay/lesbian – the film's thematic concerns pivot around the intersection of indigenous cultural heritage and contemporary understanding of LGBTQ+ identity.

Two Soft Things, Two Hard Things serves as a testament to resilience, acceptance, and profound endurance, offering undiluted insight into the fight for identity, acceptance, and eventually, celebration within a community heavily influenced by repression and colonization.

An introspective journey molding personal awakening, cultural roots, and societal acceptance, this powerful film leaves indelible footprints on the sands of universal LGBTQ+ discourse. In sharing these often overlooked narratives, it gives the viewers a robust understanding and empathy for the situation, plight and resilience of LGBTQ+ Inuit populations, a demographic that, until now, has received minimal exposure on the global stage.

The film is a must-watch for those interested in exploring complex narratives detailing the intersection of identity, sexuality, and community in a cultural setting. Whether you identify as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, a sociocultural enthusiast, or simply a lover of profound storytelling, Two Soft Things, Two Hard Things is sure to profoundly move and inspire you.