Where the Spirit Lives

Where the Spirit Lives is a powerful, moving Canadian drama film released in 1989 that radiates the vibrancy and rich cultural complexities of the indigenous societies. It stars talented actors like Michelle St. John, Kim Bruisedhead Fox, and Marianne Jones, who bring the story to life with their riveting performances.

Set in the bitter heart of the late 1930s, the movie explores the lives of the indigenous people from the prairies of North America. It focuses on the central character, Ashtoh-Komi, a courageous and bright young girl played by Michelle St. John. The character's life takes a drastic turn when she and her younger brother, Pokey, are abducted from their family by agents representing a government policy that aims at 'cultural assimilation' of indigenous children.

After their unexpected upheaval, Ashtoh-Komi and her brother find themselves in an estranged residential school system where they are forced to forsake their indigenous culture, names, and language. Despite the harsh, foreign, and oppressive surroundings, Ashtoh-Komi remains resilient. Her spirit, far from broken, continues to shine, and she constantly searches for ways to escape and return to her family. Her relentless spirit and resistance against oppression serve as the core themes of this film.

Kim Bruisedhead Fox delivers a stunning performance as Amelia, a young indigenous woman who serves as Ashtoh-Komi's mentor and friend within the oppressive confines of the residential school. Amelia embodies the despair, internal conflict, and courage of many indigenous people who strive to preserve their identities despite the odds.

Marianne Jones portrays the stern and domineering supervisor Miss Weir, who symbolizes the oppressive, colonial authority. She executes her role flawlessly, instilling a sense of unjust authority, which significantly contributes to the atmosphere of the film.

Where the Spirit Lives captures the heart-wrenching reality of the indigenous people torn away from their roots and forcefully immersed into a culture alien to them. The film does not shy away from painting a vivid picture of the trials and hardships endured by these young indigenous children at residential schools. In particular, it broaches the controversial issues of cultural erasure and colonization's impact on indigenous populations in a brutally honest and poignant manner.

Every scene intricately balances the disparity of sentiments with the stark contrast between the tranquil, enchanting native lands and the oppressive starkness of the residential school surroundings. This captivating visual storytelling makes the film feel incredibly real and impactful.

The screenplay is tightly woven with emotion, resilience, and hope, and does not miss any opportunity to showcase indigenous cultures' richness and significance. It beautifully captures Ashtoh-Komi's journey from an innocent, free-spirited child to a young woman who learns to stand tall amid adversity.

Equally noteworthy is the film's impeccable direction and the stunning cinematography which immerses the audience in the indigenous prairies' beauty, serving as a poignant backdrop to Ashtoh-Komi's foremost longing and struggle.

The haunting original score complements the film's atmospheric visuals, and intensifies the emotions and tension that the narrative aims to evoke. The fusion of traditional music elements signifies the enduring spirit of native culture, subtly acting as a supporting narrative throughout the movie.

Where the Spirit Lives is a film of great historical and social significance. It has made a considerable contribution to the dialogue on Canada's colonial past and the continuing impacts of those policies on generations of indigenous families. It's an enlightening piece of art that is sure to invoke deep thought and conversation amongst its viewers. While it underscores the struggles and injustices heaped upon the indigenous people, it also invisibly stitches a tale of hope and resilience, celebrating the unbreakable spirit of indigenous cultures.

In its totality, Where the Spirit Lives sends out a powerful message: the spirit of indigenous cultures cannot be obliterated; it lives on, thrives, and resists. It does so admirably, without the need for over-dramatization or commercialization, instead, painting the raw and faithful representation of events as they had occurred during a critical time in history.