Dance Me Outside

This is a really fine little film that far outshines the much more commented-upon "Smoke Signals". The dialogue rings true, and the characters are more than 2-D stereotypes. Some serious issues about reservation life are dealt with fairly and honestly, without falling back on condescending plot contrivances.

I had read several of the books by W.P.Kinsella about Silas, Frank, and the other characters living on the reserve in Canada. The books were full of humor, but they addressed some serious issues, so I decided to take a chance on this film. I'm really glad that I did, because it is a gem. The film manages to capture the humor in the books, while still showing the serious problems on the Rez. The actors all do a great job. Adam Beach made me howl with laughter as Frank Fencepost. Michael Greyeyes really captured the anger and the intensity of Gooch. Ryan Rajendra Black was excellent as Silas, the aspiring writer. And Jennifer Podemski was wonderful as a girl on the Rez who wanted more from life. I could go on, but there's no room. The music was perfect for the film; I especially liked NDN Kars by Keith Secola. Bruce McDonald has a reputation as a talented filmmaker, and he certainly stayed on track with this quirky, but impressive film. I thought so much of it that I bought it.

I purchased the movie a week ago and finally saw it last night. Unfortunately it is not something that blockbuster carries on a large scale. It was excellent, unlike another viewers comment I did not find it boring at all. The movie is very unique and different which is refreshing from the big Hollywood cookie cutter movies. Adam Beach, Ryan Black, and Michael Greyeyes did an awesome job. As somber as the story line is, there were many funny parts which really made the movie as well. Once you get into the movie you'll be hooked to see what happens to everyone and what happens next. I really recommend it and remember there is not a perfect movie that everyone will like 10 out of 10. I though myself give it a 10 out of 10. Check it out!

I thought that this was an excellent film, and that it really addressed some very important issues. The description given here does this film NO justice at all, nor does the trailer. I first saw this movie about six years ago and hadn't seen it since until recently. I am currently doing research of native lifestyles and the politics of reservationist systems and this movie suddenly came to mind, from six years prior. It really stuck with me through what has been six years of pretty regular movie watching and it and I am glad that it did. It is MOST definitely work a watch at least once! Its the only movie that i can recall seeing that has any sort of good representation for use in my research.

This qualifies as one of my favorite films. The opening scene is a film classic and sets the tone for the stereotype shattering, searingly funny, utter humanity that almost literally oozes from this film. Amazingly it achieved this without making me mildly nauseated. There are heaping helpings of truth in this movie, all of it not sugar-coated without descending in to excessive emotional manipulation (some degree of emotional manipulation is what the film medium is about). This film actually inspired a TV series in Canada, and launched the career of Adam Beach. There are several very sensitive issues dealt with in this movie, and quite masterfully. A very intelligent and funny film. I liked it so much, I bought the company, I mean, I give it a 10.