Irene Bedard launches film company

Inupiaq Yup’ik actress returns to Alaska to launch film company

By Joaqlin EstusInupiaq Yup’ik actress Irene Bedard, best known as the voice of Pocahontas in Disney’s animated classics series, is returning to Anchorage, where she grew up, and launching a film production company.

The name of the company is Sleeping Lady Films Waking Giant Productions.

It’s based on the legend linked to Mt. Susitna, across Cook Inlet from Anchorage, about a giant woman who will awaken when the world is at peace. Bedard says that fits with the company’s focus:

“It’s a production company that focuses on inspiring stories that feature Native characters, Native themes, Native stories that are inspiring, Alaska stories, and it’s something just to be proud to say that we’re here in Alaska,” Bedard said.

Bedard said the company will also help round out the image of Alaska.

“We are excited to have the shows Deadliest Catch and the Alaska State Troopers and I have been very proud to see those shows but I think there’s so much more to show and to be able to go to rural Alaska is something we’re excited about doing,” Bedard said.Comment:  For more on Irene Bedard, see Studi and Bedard at Williamsburg and Friends for Irene Bedard Concert.