The Grandfathers

The Grandfathers is a memorable documentary feature from 2011, directed by Jim Hanon and starring prominent figures such as Jesse Saint, Justin Gross, Steve Saint, and Ginny Saint. This heartrending and inspiring film is a beautiful depiction of the transformative power of forgiveness and the resilience of the human spirit. The film is essentially a journey of self-discovery and reflection that's deeply rooted in a historical narrative that's both intriguing and profoundly emotional.

The Grandfathers explores the unique life of a young man named Jesse Saint and his pursuit of understanding his place within his own family and his relationship with the world. Jesse represents the third generation of a family deeply touched by an incredible story, passed down from his grandfather, Steve Saint, and his great-grandfather, Nate Saint.

This beautiful and touching story dives into the complex life of Jesse, who grapples with the weighty legacy of his family's past. He is referred to as "grandfather" despite his youth, by an Ecuadorian tribe, where his family shares a deep and compelling history. The intriguing title of the film is reflective of Jesse's struggle to come to grips with his multifaceted identity and the intriguing expectations that are tied to his legacy.

In this documentary, we see Jesse's longing to understand his family's past, a narrative richly steeped in faith, martyrdom, acceptance, and overall bravery. His grandfather, Steve Saint, and great-grandfather, Nate Saint, were influential figures who made significant interactions with the Waodani tribe in Ecuador. An irony of history as the very tribe that ended Nate's life in a dramatic turn of events would later embrace his family with love and acceptance.

The story follows Jesse as he navigates this paradoxical relationship, working to unite his personal identity with the legacy left behind by his forefathers. He tries to reconcile his viewpoint about life and his future with the shadows of the past. The journey is far from smooth, but the frank and sincere portrayal of his experiences makes this cinematic piece genuinely relatable.

One of the compelling aspects of The Grandfathers is its excellent depiction of the theme of forgiveness. Jesse finds himself exploring the dual identity of being a part of his modern American family and his ties with the native Waodani tribe. The Waodanis, who once were at odds with his family, now accept him and love him as their own. This emotional landscape provides a close look at the enduring strength of the human spirit to forgive, forget, reconcile, and build afresh.

The heavy themes of personal trials and growth are balanced by the stunning cinematography that encapsulates the natural beauty of the Amazon rainforest. The lush greens, expansive waterways, and the unique lifestyle of the Waodani tribe offer captivating visuals, essentially immersing viewers right into the heart of Ecuador. This investigative journey is accompanied by a heartfelt narrative style featuring personal interviews and interactions that showcase candid emotions, making the film incredibly genuine and emotive.

Justin Gross brings his profound voice talent to the movie, narrating the journey with a touch of sincerity and depth that is palpable throughout the film. His narration is accompanied by a poignant original score that aptly complements every sentiment, trail, redemption, and reconciliation that Jesse navigates throughout his story.

Apart from Jesse, Steve Saint also holds a significant role in the documentary, providing a meaningful connection to the past and linking two vastly different worlds in the most unexpected of ways. Steve's wife, Ginny, adds another layer to the story, affirming the bond of unity, love, and respect that the Saint family shares with the Waodani tribe.

The Grandfathers is a testament to the power of forgiveness and reconciliation. With a compelling narrative, engaging performances, breathtaking visuals and a moving musical score, the film serves to inspire and remind us of the incredible strength of love and unity. This feature-length documentary is a thought-provoking journey that questions stereotypes, breaks apart preconceived notions and beautifully showcases how bridges of understanding can be built between cultures. The film’s gentle pace and profound storytelling make for an emotional and enlightening viewing experience.