Adrian Sutherland’s powerful music video Precious is earning widespread recognition on the festival circuit. Precious landed a nomination for the prestigious Golden Sheaf Award at the Yorkton Film Festival (YFF) and an official selection at the Philadelphia Independent Film Festival (PIFF).
ABOUT THE MUSIC VIDEO
Filmed in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Precious unfolds across two iconic locations, Buhler Recreation Park and the West End Cultural Centre, over two days of shooting. The video features four youth dancers, three Adrians, two locations, and one black jeep, all woven together to pay tribute to what’s truly precious: the next generation, the cycle of life, future guardians of this land, and a sense of hope for the future.
Directed by Jorge Requena Ramos, with cinematography by Landon Lake and production by RoseAnna Schick, the video also features the SummerBear Dance Troupe: Jazzlyn Hart (Jingle Dress), Jordon Hart (Grass Dance), Jrayden Hart (Grass Dance), and Lillee Hotomani (Fancy Shawl). Guided by Barbara Nepinak, the dancers celebrate the beauty of Indigenous cultures from Ojibway, Cree, Assiniboine, and Sioux traditions. The name “SummerBear” comes from Nepinak’s original name “Neebin-ni-maqua,” meaning “summer bear” in Ojibway.
A heartfelt shout-out goes to the talented production crew: Jorge Requena Ramos (Director), RoseAnna Schick (Producer), Landon Lake (Director of Photography & Editor), and Nina Buebos (Production Assistant). The nomination also honours the memory of Aaron Merasty, who worked on the project as Gaffer before his passing in 2024.
ABOUT YORKTON FILM FESTIVAL
Held in Yorkton, Saskatchewan from May 23 to 24, the Yorkton Film Festival (YFF) is North America’s longest-running film festival and a celebrated showcase of screen-based storytelling. Precious is nominated in the category of Best Performing Arts & Entertainment, a proud milestone for the team behind this visually captivating and emotionally resonant video.
ABOUT PHILADELPHIA INDEPENDENT FILM FESTIVAL
Precious has also been officially selected to screen at the 18th annual Philadelphia Independent Film Festival (PIFF), taking place May 8 to 11 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Known for its commitment to bold and thought-provoking storytelling, PIFF curates a distinctive mix of local and global films across multiple genres. Precious proudly stands among this year’s compelling selections.
ABOUT THE SONG
Precious is a foot-stomping anthem blending the soulful spirit of Black music from the American South with Adrian Sutherland’s distinct roots-rock sound. Co-written by Adrian Sutherland, Chris Gormley, and Matt Gormley, the song draws on the shared histories of resilience among Indigenous Peoples and People of Colour. It was produced by Colin Linden and appears on Adrian’s 2023 album Precious Diamonds.
With growing recognition from festivals across North America, Precious continues to inspire and resonate, offering both a celebration and a call to protect what matters most.