Filmmakers have been instrumental in the relentless campaign against global warming, using skillful storytelling to raise awareness and advocate for policy changes while warning of existential threats around the globe. The latest addition to this significant narrative is Canadian-Japanese filmmaker Ann Marie Fleming, who presents her submission in the form of a dystopian sci-fi fable titled, Can I Get A Witness? This film marks a reunion with Sandra Oh, known for her roles in Killing Eve and Grey’s Anatomy, as they previously collaborated on the animated feature Window Horses. Can I Get A Witness? premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in September 2024 and is headed for US theaters, with a trailer released ahead of its arrival.
The film puts the protection of the environment at the forefront. The plot revolves around Ellie, portrayed by Oh, who shares her home with her teenage daughter, Kiah, played by Keira Jang. As Kiah steps into her new role as a documenter in this restructured society, her task becomes essential. With printing and photography outlawed, she captures end-of-life ceremonies through her artistry, which is vividly portrayed through striking animations and drawings. Assigned to work alongside Daniel, played by Joel Oulette, who oversees the logistics of each farewell, Kiah rapidly learns the weight of her duty. While Daniel handles the burials with practiced detachment and guides individuals through their final choices, Kiah struggles to process the emotional toll of witnessing so many goodbyes. The intensity of the film heightens as she comes to terms with the looming fate of her mother.
The trailer for Can I Get A Witness? previews critical elements of Fleming’s narrative, which seems to argue against extremity in the battle against climate change. In the dystopian world depicted, global poverty has become a relic of the past and the environment appears serene and safe. However, this peace comes at a high cost; humanity must adopt a lifestyle defined by collective sacrifice, prioritizing the common good over individual desires. Perhaps the most chilling measure is a universal decree that limits human life to a maximum age of 50. This profound idea weighs heavily on the central character, who grapples with the implications throughout the trailer. Despite others accepting this ultimate sacrifice, one aged man visibly resists the decree, hoping for a different resolution.
Much of the critical acclaim directed at Can I Get A Witness? highlights Fleming’s bold imagination and the outstanding performances of its cast. The film showcases newcomer Keira Jang in her feature debut and also features Joel Oulette, who plays Kiah’s colleague Daniel, along with Ben Immanue in the role of Peter. Can I Get A Witness? is produced by Fleming alongside Raymond Massey and Ruth Vincent, with Haydn Wazelle and Sandra Oh serving as executive producers. While the film is set to premiere first in Canada on March 14, 2025, it will soon be released in select US theaters.
This thought-provoking film not only engages with pressing contemporary issues but also prompts audiences to consider the deeper implications of environmental sacrifices and our collective futures. Sandra Oh’s role brings essential gravitas to this narrative, making Can I Get A Witness? a significant contribution to the ongoing dialogue surrounding climate change and societal choices.
