The Education of Little Tree

The Education of Little Tree is an intensely moving 1997 drama centred around the uplifting and heartbreaking trials and triumphs of an orphaned Native American boy. It illuminates cultural struggles, notions of family and heritage, the cruelties of prejudice, and remarkably tough life lessons often encountered amidst an unjust world.

The film unfolds as Little Tree, played by the enchanting Joseph Ashton, is forced to navigate the world with grief far too substantial for his delicate age. After the passing of his parents, he is entrusted to the care of his paternal grandparents, splendidly enacted by James Cromwell, known for his performances in Stargate SG-1, Anna Karenina and The Green Mile fame, and Tantoo Cardinal who is notable for her roles in Dances with Wolves and Legends of the Fall among others.

Set in the rugged landscape of the strikingly beautiful Smoky Mountains during the era of the Great Depression, the narrative explores the heartrending journey of Little Tree. His grandfather imparts him with his Cherokee heritage, cultural practices, spiritual beliefs and survival skills, the bond between them becoming the nucleus of the storyline. His grandmother, while less fluent in English, is no less instrumental in nurturing his understanding of their culture. Their wisdom, love and unwavering determination to balance navigating the difficulties of the times and preservation of their Cherokee roots serve as a touchstone throughout the story.

The title of the film is derived from Little Tree's immersion into the holistic Cherokee notions of education that encompass combining practical skills, ethical values, and unwavering respect for the natural world and its intricate workings. Such an approach starkly contrasts the non-native ideals of education and societal norms prevalent in the 1930's Tennessee setting, which comes into play as the plot thickens.

The Education of Little Tree's charm lies in its ability to bear witness to the strength and resilience of the human spirit, particularly when seen through the eyes of a child. Both heartrending and humorous, it presents a harrowing narrative intertwined with elements of joy and innocent humour, providing an emotional equilibrium in storytelling that appeals to audiences of all ages.

Cromwell and Cardinal both deliver compelling performances as resourceful, wise, yet undeniably human characters, each grappling with their run-ins with a society struggling through dire poverty and rampant prejudice, whilst also trying to pass on their cherished cultural legacy to Little Tree. Young Joseph Ashton turns in a bravura performance as the eponymous Little Tree, striking the perfect balance between a vulnerable child traumatised by loss and a budding survivalist equipped with the sage wisdom of his elders.

Visual metaphors abound throughout this film, bringing a depth and richness that enhance the narrative extraordinarily. Beautiful landscapes and nuanced cinematography assist in making the film an immersive experience, while the powerful score adds a vital atmospheric layer, elevating the film even further.

The Education of Little Tree serves as a sublime testament to the power of heritage, resilience and love in mitigating life's harshest realities. It challenges audiences to rethink their understanding of education, highlighting how wisdom is often acquired outside the confines of formal systems. It unfolds as a poignant reminder that the deepest lessons about life often come wrapped in the simple daily tasks, and the wisdom of our elders and ancestors is not to be forgotten or dismissed, but absorbed and cherished.

Director Richard Friedenberg takes great pains to craft an honest yet empathetic portrayal of the wholesale cultural dislocation faced by indigenous peoples during this historical period. It has an undeniably sobering effect, forcing the viewer to confront realities of prejudice, cultural hegemony, and social justice.

In conclusion, The Education of Little Tree provides a profound examination of various themes such as culture, heritage, prejudice, love, loss, survival, and the concept of education. It is a deeply poignant cinematic venture that stands out with its riveting performances, breathtaking landscapes, and thought-provoking narrative.