Customer Reviews

Imprint

5 star:		(19)
4 star:		(4)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

I have to admit, I picked this movie up as a rental, because of the lovely, mysterious artwork on the cover. There was also reference to the fact that it won 'Best Film,' at the 32nd American Indian Film Festival for 2007. I casually thought I'd give it a try, but my expectations weren't high. At the time, I didn't know I was holding a little Indie jewel.

I'm still struggling with placing this film into a genre. It's not slasher horror, because it's free of blood and guts, but it WILL frighten you, at times. It's not just a thriller, because of the supernatural aspects. It is also an atypical ghost story. I think it is a category of its own, encompassing a little of several genres that many of us love. But, what makes it so interesting is the spiritual aspects, and magical realism of the Lakota, woven throughout, which culminates into a crescendo of an unexpected ending.

Shayla Stonefeather (Tonantzin Carmelo) is the chief protagonist, a Native American Attorney, returning home to the reservation to visit her father, who is facing death. She is initially very ambivalent about this visit. She has allowed herself to be removed from the traditions of her people, preferring to base her beliefs on science, rather than superstition and magic. In 1 hour, 28 minutes, we witness all of her current and past beliefs challenged, as she begins receiving messages from the spirit world. These messages represent violence and death, but who are they intended for---and who are the intended victims. The supporting cast, including Michael Spears (a Tribal Officer), her mother(Carla-Rae Holland) and the Medicine Man (Lakota Chief David Bald Eagle) all give top notch performances, as they assist Shayla on her journey of self discovery.

I think that viewers need to keep in mind, that this movie was not high on budget and, from the extras, it was shot in just three weeks time. So, you won't get any of the heart-pounding CGI afforded major productions. But, the scenery is beautiful---the countryside, the roaming buffalo, the stalking wolf and the noble pinto horse. You will feel the splendor of S. Dakota.

I applaud the producers of this movie, for giving an almost all Native American cast the opportunity to shine, in a contemporary film, minus the stereotypical images. We could use more like these. In fact, I can even envision a series---maybe Shayla's character teaming up with Tribal Police in solving crimes---a little romance. Yeah, it could work!

Our family enjoyed this film and we have shared it with several friends. We are happy to see a film with modern realistic Native American characters, played by Native Actors. It had suspense, a good story, with some twists and turns. A "clean" story WITHOUT excessive violence, gore or nudity. Imprint

I first viewed this film alongside the director, Michael Linn, at the Sedona Film Festival in April 08, which could have put me in an awkward position had I not liked the film. And quite honestly, I thought this would be a typical suspense movie with an ending I could figure out in the first ten minutes. Happily, I was wrong! With a skillfully written plot, an outstanding cast, and some chilling special effects, this film did not disappoint. The unusual twists kept me on the edge and the ending totally blew me away. I would highly recommend this DVD to anyone looking for a fresh take on a suspense/thriller.

Tonantzin Carmelo plays a modern day successful Native American prosecutor. Born and raised on the Pine Ridge rez, once the little girl that saved her change to buy food for the suffering of her tribe, she has moved away from her Lakota beliefs and culture when she moved to the big city. With her white boyfriend and co worker by her side she tries one of the most controversial cases of her career; a teenage Lakota boy accused of murdering a white woman. After the trail Tonantzin journeys home to bid her dying father goodbye. Home is a jar of painful memories and worry for the long lost brother that simply ran off and had not been heard from. In her heart she feels he is dead. Not even a day later she receives the shocking phone call that the Lakota boy she had tried as an adult was shot and killed when he tried to escape prison. Not only would she have to survive the threats from his vengeful family, she would endure a series of terrifying moments from angry spirits; the condemned boy or her brother's agonizing ghost? She will have to face her worst nightmare and the betrayal could prove deadly.
Sexy Michael Spears plays a tribal officer set on keeping Shayla (Tonantzin Carmelo) safe. I only wish Michael was in the film more.
Imprint was an edgy thriller without the gore and blood. A good plot with a surprising ending.... A talent cast of Native American actors, finally in a MODERN DAY film. I hope Hollywood makes more.

If you like Native American themed movies, this is one for you. Suspense/Mystery that keeps you wondering till almost the end. Not an expected ending. Surprise!!! I loved it.

I enjoy watching all kinds of movies. I first rented the movie 'cause I was attracted to the cover and it seemed interesting when I read what the movie was about. It took me by surprised and it was very well filmed. Eventhough, the budget on it was extremely low. Excellent cinematography though and the fact that it had Michael Spears in it made it a must have. Ever since I watched it, I had to buy my own copy. Wonderful movie and if you enjoy watching native films. This is a must have.

I am always hunting for a good ghost movie. This is a really great supernatural thriller, without all the obnoxious gore as in the usual hollowood style.This film proves that movies don't have to be expensive, over-produced, paying million-dollar 'stars' and filled with unnecessary sex and violence and special effects. Just tell the story, make your point, and do it creatively, please. If it's good we'll feel satisfied, and hopefully a little awed. This film was made with real stars, genuine sentiment and excellent effects, the story, the screenplay and overal production are all appropriate and clear. I applaud.

I don't see why more stores, libraries, and rental companies don't stock it. Its a real winner for me. I gathered several of my friends to watch it and everyone agreed. Please make more supernatural thillers from a Native American perspective like this.

It was simply a 'recommendation' from Amazon; thank you for that.

ps.I was initially sent "Imprint" a "Masters of Horror" film from another seller by mistake. I read the package notes and I don't even want to open that piece of work. They didn't want it back either. So be sure to get the right one.

I did not know what to expect from this film. I am a huge Chris Eyre (producer) and was intrigued by the description of the film. This is a well-made preternaatural thriller. the actors handle the materail well and the script is very intelligent. There are many themes here: cultural pride, search for truth, justice, fear and love.

I, too, was privileged to be present for a showing of this film alongside director Michael Linn, who spent a great deal of time talking with attendees afterward about the concept and how it was carried out.

I never once suspected the ending (and I really believe that anyone who claims otherwise is a boastful liar), and the consistent suspenseful moments kept me on the edge of my seat. But what makes the movie so memorable is the greater lesson it teaches about our responsibility to others, our debt to the past and the support we should always show for our people.

I also really like to see us break away from stereotypes about Pine Ridge. A family with a large house, a sizable herd, and laptops and cellphones? Right on - yes, America, the Lakota DO live in the 21st century.

Despite what another reviewer said, you cannot guess the ending in 10 seconds. You would have to be a very good clairvoyant to do so. This story has twists and such reminiscent of the Sixth Sense. It is worth the money and it was very well acted. The storyline was incredible! I would have never guessed it! This movie is a jewel. If you like movies such as 'The House that Mary Bought", "The Sixth Sense" and anything of that nature, you will love this...Ignore the negativity put out there. This film is worth the money spent to get the dvd.