'Mile Post 398' breaks new ground in Native filmmakingTo create a film depicting reality is truly a feat, and according to viewers and critics across North America, "Mile Post 398" is nothing less than perfect. With recent awards including Best Narrative Feature from the Fargo Film Festival 2007, Best Drama and Best Screenplay from the Tulalip Film Festival 2007 and Best Supporting Actor (Ernest David Tsosie III) from the American Indian Film Festival 2007, there is no denying that "Mile Post 398" has broken new ground and satisfied audiences in every way.
Shonie and Andee De La Rosa, Dine' of Kayenta, wrote, directed and produced the film based upon their life experiences and the desire to create a film comprised entirely of Navajo cast and crew. Furthermore, the couple wanted to shoot the film entirely on location--the Navajo Nation.At least it avoids stereotypes:
In the making of "Mile Post 398," Shonie said maintaining cultural accuracy was a way of showing respect to his community and heritage.
"It's respect. It's respect towards our elders, respect towards our people. It reminds us where we come from."
Throughout the film, Shonie explained, no Indian cliches are used. "There are no eagle screams, no pow wows--none of that."
"I hope it opens more eyes to the fact that we're not about leathers and feathers and living in teepees," Junes said.Comment: Is
Mile Post 398 "perfect"? I doubt it. Judging by the descriptions and Shonie's work on
D.C. Indian, I'm guessing it falls into the 7-8 range (on a scale of 1-10). I'll let you know for sure when I see it.
1 comment:
As I expected, Mile Post 398 was very good but not perfect. See my Review of Mile Post 398 for details.
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