Barking Water

Barking Water is an affective drama released in 2009, under the creative direction of Sterlin Harjo. This beautifully woven narrative features inherently human elements of love, regret, reconciliation, and the quintessential journey towards self-discovery. The movie stars Bebe Harjo, Gabriel Pelayo, and Frederick Schroeder, who masterfully bring the intricate characters to life.

Set against the picturesque backdrop of rural Oklahoma, Barking Water opens with a poignant, hard-hitting scene where Franklin, played by Frederick Schroeder, is in a hospital bed, grappling with imminent mortality. Yanked out of denial by the reality of their evaporating time together, Frankie’s ex-partner, Irene, astoundingly portrayed by Bebe Harjo, decides to break him out of the hospital for one last ride.

Their shared journey forms the crux of the movie, a profoundly moving road trip that becomes a rollercoaster ride of tender emotions, bitter confessions, and yearning for absolution. Both characters bear the marks of a strained relationship, lost opportunities and unfulfilled dreams but are united by their shared affection and a mutual longing for closure. Their journey offers them the chance to confront their shared past, and perhaps find some solace in their shared future, no matter how short-lived it might be.

One of the most significant characters in this movie is the landscape – the open road of Oklahoma. Its vastness and solitude resonate with the inner lives of the characters, mirroring the disarray of emotions and thoughts they are dealing with. The serene, open spaces of rural Oklahoma serve as a beautiful canvas for the movie.

Moving away from extravagant special effects and high-octane action sequences commonly associated with mainstream Hollywood, Barking Water delves into the realm of soulful storytelling. The director, Sterlin Harjo, elegantly captures the beauty of simple moments and lets the subtleties of emotions and undercurrents of thoughts seep into the narrative organically.

In the heart of it, Barking Water is a love story – an unconventional one that is not only about the joys and sacrifices of love but is also an exploration into the dark corners of regret, resentment, and acceptance. The chemistry between the two protagonists is palpable; their complex relationship unfolds slowly, revealing layers of emotional depth and past conflicts.

Another facet of the film is its exploration of the Native American identity and culture. The portrayal of Native American characters is authentic, making it a captivating watch for individuals interested in learning more about cultures beyond their known circles. Not only does the film shed light on the lifestyle and lived experiences of Native Americans but also subtly exposes the prejudices and systemic challenges faced by this community. Yet, it does not limit them to their struggles, offering a nuanced portrayal that includes their resilience, hopes, dreams and their humanity in a way that is both refreshing and enlightening.

Barking Water is also a testament to the power of reconciliation and having courage even when confronted with the inevitability of death. The road trip serves as a stage for revelations, whether they be of personal truths or accepting each other's imperfections. It is a journey where the characters seek and eventually find, some form of redemption.

From a cinematography point of view, Barking Water is a visual delight. The beautiful yet straightforward imagery captures the essence of the movie while successfully emphasizing the emotional journey of the characters. The movie slows down the pacing at just the right times to let viewers soak in the stillness of poignant moments.

Barking Water is a captivating drama that gracefully switches between the narrative layers of love, regret and redemption; tied together with moments of levity to create a balanced cinematic experience that stays with the viewer long after the credits roll. The movie offers a unique cinematic experience that is at once intimate and relatable, transcending cultural boundaries and exploring universal human emotions. It is definitely a must-watch for viewers who appreciate absorbing narratives and soul-stirring performances.