Based on the novel by Richard Wagamese: in the 1960s, Saul Indian Horse (played at different times by Sladen Peltier, Forrest Goodluck, and Ajuawak Kapashesit) is an indigenous boy in northern Ontario who is forced into a Catholic residential school where he eventually develops exceptional skills as a hockey player.
In addition to successfully focusing on a personal story that reflects probably the worst part of Canada's history (more on that later),"Indian Horse" fascinates in some segments that involve conflicting values. One involves generations of an indigenous family in which an elder practices traditional spirituality while the younger adult generation (brainwashed in residential schools) insists that Christianity is the only acceptable belief system. In later scenes, interpretations of Christianity itself present a conflict in the residential school. On the one hand is a reforming priest who believes in a compassionate approach to the children; on the other is a nun (a true creature from hell) whose approach is literal and uses any means necessary to "Christianize" the children.
The film's conclusion is quite touching in its recollection of Saul's difficult past as he tries to come to terms with it.
The fact this film was made and distributed (and playing for more than a month in some theatres) is a victory in itself - not only because it is a film of good quality but mainly for frankly addressing some of the worst parts of Canadian history - recent and not so recent. Hopefully, similar stories will be told. - dbamateurcritic
Indian Horse
2017
Action / Drama / Sport
Indian Horse
2017
Action / Drama / Sport
Plot summary
Focused on the troublesome past of Residential Schools in the 60's, we see the Indigenous Canadian and their struggles before, during, and after the fact. Specifically following the story of young Saul Indian Horse, and his journey throughout every stereotypical and racist obstacle imaginable. Seemingly on his way to stardom as a talented hockey player, backed by the support of his dream and fellow indigenous teammates belief, the battles continue to develop, and overtime turns him towards the very stereotypes he so desperately fought to overcome. A fair warning that while sport themed, this movie is about much more, and as a warning is exceptionally sad and distressing. Regardless of being well educated in the treatment of Indigenous people back then or not, it's certainly not comfortable to see the portrayal of what life might have been like in the residential schools, and even further what life was like on the road in our own country of Canada during those times. Like climbing a mountain, for every steep incline you think the movie is finally on the up and up, until a crashing stagnant detail hits, and the battle becomes that much more difficult for young Saul. He's so close to establishing the dream, the great feat, but against all odds, who could imagine facing this battle on one's own. All things considered, the movie is certainly not your run of the mill sports movie that progresses towards a...well you should watch for yourself and see.
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A good film for a very timely subject
good story of first american growing up in canada
Follows the life of first american Saul White Horse, removed from his family at a very young age. sent off to a church school to learn and follow the white man's customs. we watch him grow up with cruel, christian ways, among all the racism and isolation, then we catch up to the present, as Saul (Ajuawak Kapashesit ) finds his passion: skating. and he's canadian, so of course, hockey. it's a constant struggle. very well done. good story of growing up, being strong, trying to avoid having to work in the unhealthy mines. One of six productions by Stephen Campanelli. Story by canadian Richard Wagamese. it's quite good !!
Indian lives matter
Late to the political wars the plight of the native Americans bears resemblance to that of the African Americans. This one is a fair depiction.