Beans

Beans is a compelling drama film from 2020, directed by award-winning filmmaker Tracey Deer. Graced by powerful performances from an ensembles cast of Kiawentiio, Rainbow Dickerson, and Violah Beauvais, the film represents an eye-opening and poignant journey through one of the most significant episodes in Canadian history, reflecting residual tensions and exploring the explosive nature of racial discrimination.

The film is named after its young protagonist, Beans (played by Kiawentiio), and follows her life on the Mohawk reserve of Kahnawake, in Quebec, Canada - experiencing the fallout from the Oka Crisis in the summer of 1990. Beans is a twelve-year-old Mohawk girl ready with courage and bravery as she comes of age during this turbulent period, facing an increasing sense of identity crisis and social ostracization.

As the conflict escalates between the Mohawk community and the Canadian government officials over a proposed golf course expansion into the native burial grounds, Beans is catapulted through her transformative journey from childhood to adolescence. This is not the regular fun and adventurous whirlwind that comes with teenage life; it is a harrowing phase filled with fear, violence, and the unfortunate reality of prejudice that causes Beans to question her identity, value, and place in society.

Rainbow Dickerson plays Beans' mother Lily, exuding an arresting combination of grit and vulnerability as she battles to keep her family safe amid the socio-political upheaval. Violah Beauvais also contributes an unforgettable role, portraying Beans' younger sister Ruby, a beacon of innocence and joyous wonder amid the harsh reality their family faces day in and day out.

The film is semi-autobiographical as it draws heavily from director Tracey Deer's own experiences. This personal touch is reflected in the sincerity and depth of the narrative. Beans' narrative speaks volumes of the struggles faced by indigenous communities and the untold stories that are yet to reach global audiences.

Deer's storytelling is as provocative and bold as it is heartfelt. She paints a realistic and, at times, ruthless picture of what it feels like to grow up in a marginalized community, to be a little girl carrying the burden of a centuries-old struggle. Yet, amidst the grit and rawness of the conflict, Tracey Deer sprinkles moments of hope, growth, and resilience, a testament to the indomitable spirit of the indigenous communities.

One of the most commendable aspects of Beans is its narrative perspective. The film decides to tell a political and racial conflict through the eyes of a young girl, which infuses a sense of immediacy and relatability to the narrative. Moreover, it serves to remind the audience that these are not mere historical events in a distant past; they are experiences that shape lives, that impact children and adolescents in ways more profound and lasting than one might imagine.

The cinematography and production design of Beans further amplify its narrative intentions. The landscape of Quebec, underscored by the heartfelt lightings and hues, stands as a silent yet eloquent speaker of the turmoil, struggles, and resilience. The frugal yet authentic aesthetics successfully create the visual metaphor of Beans' psychological journey as she navigates her way through societal corridors marred with conflict, prejudice, and identity crisis.

On the technical front, the movie is also brought to life by the editing and sound design. Every cut, every soundbite, every captured echo seems to contribute to Beans' world and her internal tumult. Additionally, the film's poignant soundtrack strikes a compelling balance between traditional Mohawk music and contemporary scoring, adding a dimension to the viewing experience.

To its core, Beans is an intriguing coming-of-age movie, meticulously crafted and honestly narrated. It's a tale of resilience and identity that opens several lines of dialogue about race, society, and the reality of living as an indigenous community member in a world that often tends to marginalize them. It's a must-watch for individuals seeking a deeper understanding of history and the human experiences influenced by it.