On Thursday, April 24th, at 7pm at the Emerson Center, the Bozeman Doc Series, in association with Gallatin Valley Earth Day, will present the Montana premiere of the brand new, critically acclaimed documentary, Folktales.

The screening will be preceded at 6pm by a reception in the Emerson ballroom with food and drink, our annual silent auction, and Earth Day information and opportunities from event sponsors, such as Gallatin Valley Earth Day, Broken Ground, Visions Service Adventures, The Wilderness Society, the Bozeman Field School, Public Land & Water Access Association and more.

In Norse mythology, the three “Norns” are powerful deities who weave the threads of fate and shape humans’ futures. Today, Pasvik Folk High School in northern Norway aims to produce a similar life-changing effect on its students. Folktales tells the timely and emotional story of teenagers who choose to spend an unconventional “gap year” learning to dog sled and survive the Arctic wilderness, in hopes of finding connection and meaning in the modern world. Guided by patient teachers and a yard full of Alaskan huskies, they discover their own potential and develop deep relationships with the land, animals and humans around them. For nearly two centuries, Scandinavian folk high schools – some of which are rooted in the lessons of Norse mythology – have emphasized the power of nature, simplicity, and community to transform young lives. “We hope we can wake up your Stone Age brain, ” Pasvik instructor Iselin tells her students.

Through intimate verité storytelling and exhilarating cinematography, Academy Award-nominated filmmakers Heidi Ewing and Rachel Grady examine humans on the cusp of adulthood, finding themselves at the edge of the world.

Folktales world-premiered in January at the Sundance Film Festival to widespread critical acclaim.

“Subtly moving…a gentle film with emotional power…Ewing and Grady don’t manufacture or force anything, giving their film the tone of the peaceful setting in which it takes place. It’s a soothing experience that alternates raw conversation with gorgeously shot sequences of the landscape and the dogs who practically serve as therapy animals for these people. Dog lovers shouldn’t miss this one. Honestly, no one should.” Rogerebert.com

“A frigid, furry and very sweet coming-of-age doc…beautifully shot…an enjoyable, immersive lesson.” The Hollywood Reporter

“An intimate portrait of some self-proclaimed outcasts…these teens are sweet and bright, but for various reasons they have not been able to fit in with their peers. Watching these young people, who are often riddled with insecurity, fully in touch with their inner wild animal is moving. The uncertain world beyond the Pasvik Folk High School awaits them, but for one glorious moment, they are able to run free.” Screen International

Doors open at 6pm. the film begins at 7. Tickets are available at the door or before the show online at www.bozemandocseries.org. The series will wrap up its tenth season with our final screening on Sunday, May 4th, 2025.

If your organization would like to participate as a sponsor, please reach out through the contact form here.