Blood Quantum

Blood Quantum

Blood Quantum is a fierce, politically charged horror film that reimagines the zombie genre through an Indigenous lens. Set in the isolated Mi’gmaq community of Red Crow, the story unfolds as a mysterious plague turns the outside population into the undead—while the Indigenous inhabitants discover they are immune.

Directed by Mi’gmaq filmmaker Jeff Barnaby, the film uses its supernatural premise to confront themes of colonialism, survival, and cultural resilience. The title itself refers to the colonial concept of measuring Indigenous identity by blood, a metaphor that becomes literal as the immune community faces an onslaught of outsiders seeking refuge.

Visually striking and visceral in its execution, Blood Quantum balances genre thrills with biting social commentary. Barnaby’s vision fuses sharp political insight with emotional depth, crafting a story that is as much about reclaiming identity as it is about battling apocalypse.

Premiering at the 2019 Toronto International Film Festival and winning multiple Canadian Screen Awards, including Best Editing and Best Visual Effects, Blood Quantum stands as a groundbreaking work in Indigenous cinema—a bold statement about survival, sovereignty, and what remains when the world ends.

Screening With:

Whiteface

Canadian Shorts Showcase

Using explosive movement and satirical humour, two indigenous performers tread the timeline of appropriation of Indigenous bodies, from cowboys to Coachella, exploring concepts of identity and colonization. Through movement, mask, and the subversion of the performance of Red Face, a history of social masks comes alive in this timely and impactful performance devised by Todd Houseman and Lady Vanessa Cardona.

15 mins 45s
Canada, 2019
Dir. Everett Sokol
Language: English

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