November 07, 2008
Edward Curtis is known for his early 20th-century photos of Native Americans, but he also made a silent movie with an all-indigenous cast, called "In the Land of the Head Hunters." The film is being shown again now, accompanied by a live orchestra - this time, the musicians are all Native. Produced by Trent Wolbe.
I am not Native American, but I felt such a strong connection to this music and project that it brought tears to my eyes. It made me think of holocaust survivors meeting up with one another and producing something. Thank you.
I have a copy of this film on DVD which was restored in 1974 with a score done by Kwakwaka'wakw native speakers. Whatever the faults of the plot or the staging, this is an amazing film that shows the beauty, art, and power of Kwakwaka'wakw costume, dance, and ritual. I grew up in the Pacific Northwest where this was filmed, and it shows the deep connection to the land and water these people had. It is a stunning film.
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