SMOKE
SIGNALS
In Smoke Signals, director Chris Erye and writer Sherman Alexie give
us a realistic and moving view of Native Americans. They drop the stereotypes
and truthfully portray Native Americans as regular people full of hopes and
dreams, facing tough decisions and coping with loss. Erye and Alexie also
examine the stereotypes and racism they face, as well as the inner struggle
each faces dealing with the world.
The movie opens with an incident that connects our two main characters for
life. In Coeur d'Alene, Idaho on Independence Day 1976, Arnold Joseph (Gary
Farmer) saved the life of Thomas (Evan Adams) as both of his parents perished
in a horrible fire. Now orphaned, Thomas is raised by his grandmother and
tries to connect with those around him through storytelling. Also rescued
from the fire is Arnold Joseph's son, Victor (Adam Beach).
Erye skillfully uses a series of flashbacks mixed with modern day action
to explain the relationship between Thomas and Victor. He shows us the friendship
shared by the two until a guilt-ridden Arnold Joseph leaves his family for
Arizona. On that day, young Thomas (Simon Baker) suggests it is young Victor's
(Cody Lightning) fault that his father has left. Victor never forgives Thomas
until his mother (Tantoo Cardinal) receives a call from Arnold Joseph's neighbor
(Irene Bedard) informing her that his father has died.
Victor wants to travel to Arizona to claim his father's remains, but cannot
afford a bus ticket. Although they have grown apart, Thomas agrees to lend
him the money, but with the condition that they go together. Thomas always
had a strong relationship with the man who saved his life, and wishes to
say good-bye with his old friend.
The resulting movie becomes one of the best buddy movies I have seen in a
long time. Unlike the classic Dean Martin/Jerry Lewis buddy pictures, this
one is driven by Alexie's sharp Tarrantino-like dialogue instead of zany
situation comedy. During the trip, we learn about the racism Victor and Thomas
face as they encounter others filled with hate.
Not only do Victor and Thomas face hate as they leave the reservation for
the first time in their lives, but they are burdened by conflicting ideas
of how they should act and portray themselves. One of the best scenes of
the movie results when Victor instructs Thomas how he should act or else,
"the white man will run all over you." Victor tells Thomas he must abandon
his trademark suit and braids for long flowing locks and a stoic appearance.
Thomas transforms himself into a warrior, but retains his nerdy demeanor,
realizing that he doesn't want to be a stereotype.
In Arizona, Thomas and Victor learn about the rehabilitated Arnold Joseph.
He gave up drinking and loved his son from afar. Arnold's neighbor, Suzy
Song, explains why he left Victor and his mother and the truth behind the
most important incident in Victor and Thomas' lives.
The picture is full of excellent performances. Gary Farmer shines as the
alcoholic and remorseful Arnold Joseph. Farmer is excellent as we slowly
watch him deteriorate and become consumed with guilt. Adam Beach is fabulous
as the emotionally withdrawn and heartbroken Victor. He fills the character
full of rage and hurt. Evan Adams should have been nominated for an Oscar
for his performance as the "Dances with Wolves"-loving, mystical,
nerdy Thomas. He creates an appealing and enduring character that you hope
will reappear in other work by Eyre and Alexie.
Why was this movie released in June of 1998?!?!?!? Unfortunately, this excellent
movie would have been better served if it were released in the fall or winter
like most Oscar contenders. That competition would have been more appropriate
than facing Saving Private Ryan, Armageddon and Something
About Mary. The movie was awarded the Audience Award and the Filmmaker's
Trophy at the 1998 Sundance Film Festival, and could have made a strong Oscar
showing if released at a better time.
Chris Eyre does an excellent job helming the first movie by Native Americans
about Native Americans. Unfortunately, the movie has some fantastic
cinematography that is lost on the small screen. Although this movie never
registered on the national radar screen, Eyre has great potential and will
be heard from as he makes more movies. Fortunately for us, this movie is
available on video, allowing us the opportunity to enjoy this hidden gem.
Smoke Signals: A-
Directed by Chris Eyre
Screenplay by Sherman Alexie
Based on the book "The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven" by Sherman
Alexie
Music by BC Smith
Cast
Victor
. Adam Beach
Thomas
.. Evan Adams
Suzy Song
.. Irene Bedard
Arnold Joseph
Gary Farmer
Arlene Joseph
Tantoo Cardinal
Young Victor
. Cody Lightning
Young Thomas
.. Simon Baker
Cathy
. Cynthia Geary
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