Half-brothers Seth and Peter Scriver come together to craft a visually surreal tapestry of memories
In a time when films often follow predictable patterns and familiar storytelling formulas, Seth and Peter Scriver’s animated documentary emerges as an unusual, whimsical, and profoundly thoughtful work that boldly breaks the mold. As they describe, their aim was to create something “humorous, beautiful, spiritual, political, intricate, simple, and truthful.” Impressively, their debut documentary fulfills this ambitious vision—particularly during its most disjointed and raw moments. Merging present-day reflections with flashbacks to the 1980s, the film intuitively explores the lives of two brothers: Seth’s life in an urban artistic setting and Peter’s connection to his First Nation roots. The film delves into themes of family, fatherhood, outdoor exploration, and systemic oppression.
From the outset, the decade-spanning collaboration between the half-brothers—who also serve as directors and writers—challenges traditional documentary conventions. It lacks a singular, focused theme and instead touches on a variety of subjects, often drifting into tangents that end abruptly. One example is the anecdote where Pete sets a trap, only for the bait to fall. While adjusting it, the trap snaps shut on his hand, leaving him stranded in the snowy wilderness—his sweater left behind in the car… And just like this, the story meanders, until suddenly finding its focus again. Pete’s storytelling blends everyday experiences with magical undertones, revealing deeper themes: a celebration of daily life, the power of oral traditions, reclaiming Indigenous stories from oversimplified portrayals.
The close bond between the brothers offers valuable perspectives. It shines a light on their relationship and Canadian identity, Indigenous culture, and heritage. Pete’s mother is Indigenous, while Seth’s is white. Seth lives in the city of Toronto. Pete remains in Shamattawa, a remote northern First Nation community. The animated documentary medium offers them the freedom to tell stories creatively while honoring Indigenous lived experiences. Set on the traditional land of the Shamattawa First Nation, the documentary brings forth Pete’s memories. Heartfelt conversations with Seth unearth stories rooted in spirituality, tradition, and resistance to systemic marginalization. These personal narratives build a layered historical account, connecting individual memory with collective cultural experience.
The documentary tackles difficult subjects such as the high incarceration rates of Indigenous people, and the enduring trauma caused by residential schools. Pete’s recollections, filled with inherited trauma and cultural knowledge, offer a deeply personal view of these realities. Seth brings a different perspective. As a white urban artist 16 years Pete’s junior, he’s emotionally detached from these experiences. He listens with fascination, yet from a distance. Notably, Seth hand-animated nearly the entire film himself. His eccentric animation style draws comparisons to both South Park and children’s picture books. Characters feature exaggerated noses and eyes, or appear as giant chocolate chip cookies. Yet this visual humor never comes off as disrespectful. Instead, the vibrant and imaginative illustrations carry a genuine emotional warmth.
The colorful, cheerful animation complements the film’s gentle tone. Even when the narrative feels scattered, the charming vignettes about fishing, rebuilding a teepee, or casual chats, mesmerize. The film’s very creation plays a key role in its story. The extended production process becomes one of many anecdotes in this affectionate cinematic patchwork. Originally meant to consist of seven short stories from Pete to Seth, the project eventually grew into a wider and deeper narrative. What begins as fragmented memories transforms into a meaningful reflection of Indigenous culture and history. With touches of humor, subtle critiques of systemic issues, and a strong emotional core, the film bridges cultural and geographical divides.
Its beautifully composed scenes use a mix of cartoons, collage, and digital techniques, resulting in a film that is as emotionally resonant as it is imaginative. The looping narrative structure subtly symbolizes the interconnectedness of family, art, and spirit.
- OT: Endless Cookie
- Director: Seth Scriver, Peter Scriver
- Year: 2025
