Jordan River Anderson, The Messenger

"Jordan River Anderson, The Messenger" is a 2019 Canadian documentary directed by Alanis Obomsawin. It delves into the life of Jordan River Anderson, a young boy from the Norway House Cree Nation in Manitoba, who spent the initial five years of his life in the confines of a hospital despite being deemed fit for home care at the age of two. The documentary highlights the political tug-of-war between provincial and federal authorities over the financial responsibility for his medical treatment due to a rare genetic disorder. This conflict catalyzed the establishment of Jordan's Principle, aimed at ensuring equitable access to health and social services for First Nations children. Premiering at the 2019 Toronto International Film Festival, it later earned acclaim, winning the Best Canadian Documentary award at the 2019 Vancouver International Film Festival. The film's poignant narrative and societal impact have garnered widespread praise, reflected in its unanimous positive reception among critics on Rotten Tomatoes. Directed by Alanis Obomsawin, the documentary features appearances by Ernest Anderson, Virginia Anderson, Cindy Blackstock, and Carolyn Buffalo.