Customer Reviews

Lakota Woman - Siege at Wounded Knee [VHS]

5 star:		(14)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

When I saw this movie, I was not aware of the American Indian Movement at all. I did not have a clue about the struggles of American Indian peoples at all (and I live in Oklahoma which considering the American Indian population here, that is pretty sad). This movie woke me out of all that. I went on to read the book Lakota Woman and realized the parts that were left out or creatively licensed in the film to enhance the drama, but it was still a good movie. I thought that Irene Bedard did a great job as did many others of the cast and crew. This movie raised my consciousness and led me to become involved in a Native American club for five years. Even though I am not with them anymore, this movie will always remain close to my heart as one that caused me to become more aware. I definitely recommend both the movie and the book.

This is a good story that bears re-telling, as all stories of injustice do. The pacing is good and it doesn't get preachy...well not too preachy. The sad story of what misguided but probably well-intentioned Catholic missionary schools did to Native Americans is touched on. That could be a movie in itself. The hopelessness of life on the reservation is effectively shown, too.
Of course, the main story is the stand-off at Wounded Knee, and Mary's "hovering on the edge" presence is an interesting way to tell the story. Some male chauvinist attitudes are apparent among the leaders of AIM, but the more traditional Native American respect for the words of women asserts itself through Mary's and the other women's strong stand.
Irene Bedard gives an unself-conscious protrayal of Mary Crow Dog which effectively captures the viewer's empathy rather than sympathy. All the other actors give warm dignified protrayals that let the story speak for itself. An interesting unbilled appearance by Peter Weller as a straight-talking Army man provides some slightly comic relief. His short scene shows the smallness and mean spiritedness of the supposed upholders of the law. A good film to show in a class as material to spark a discussion of human rights.

A friend of mine gave me this movie as a gift 2 years ago and I watched it at least 20 times now. With a Native American cast, I was completely pulled into the film as I saw what happened from the eyes of the Native people. I also have a better understanding of what the GOONs are and what horrors they inflicted (still inflict) upon such a sovereign nation of people. The injustice done to the Lakota people angered me and it was from watching this film, a good Lakota friend of mine encouraged me to do whatever small part I, a white woman can do. I strongly urge anyone who has no or little knowledge of what happened at the seige of Wounded Knee and the birth of AIM (American Indian Movement) to purchase and watch this film. One time viewing is not enough.

One of the best movies on Human Rights I have ever seen! It clearly showed injustices suffered at the hands of a few. GOONS doing drive by shootings on the Reservations! Stuff they don't tell you about in history books. Prior to this, I read Russell Means's autobiography, which also gives significant insite into the cruelness of the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Both vividly depict the importance and need for AIM to protect the people. I feel this movie accurately portrays a history (and perhaps, present day) that we all should be aware of.

This movie is one of the greatest I have ever watched. It really reflects the changing times we as Native American people have endured and still endure. This movie has awaken so many of the Non-Indians as to what really happen at little Big Horn, and how our struggle for soverignity is so vital to us as a people. Yah Wey!

I saw this movie on cable for the first time almost 4 years ago when I was about 17. I tried to record it. My recording...... and has missing parts but it's been my favorite movie still. After I had to read the book about Mary because the movie made me so interested in the Lakota culture and my own culture as a native Californian with a lost ancestry. I'm now buying the movie and can't wait to see the real movie with all parts! This movie inspired me to find my culture and embrace the truth as hard as it is. I hope it could do the same for all.

This is a great movie about the American Indians and AIM taking over The Knee in 73.

I just wish those big wigs in the ivory towers at Turner Broadcasting would get around to transfering this great movie onto DVD.

Grrr

A fascinating insight into what happened at Wounded Knee in 1973. This film is particularly usefull for those who are unaware of this important part of American history and wish to know more. When watching this film I felt I was there and subsequently read more on the subject and even spoke to individuals who were there realising how brave and isolated these indians were in their quest for justice. This movie is a keeper.

This movie starts off rather slow. After the characters are introduced and the conflict begins the viewer is caught up in the lives of the Lakota as the white demons kill at random without really knowing why. One scene with the native people locked in the church is particularly touching. It shows sacred ceremonies. The music and song at the end of the film during the credits is excellent. It will make you remember the film and struggle of the Lakota for a very long time.

AJ FAL

This movie is an excellent dramatization of the book and the events. So many movies about Native Americans end in 1890. This movie shows the life of a contemporary Native American girl/woman and the continuing Native American struggle for land, dignity, respect and human rights.

As Daniel White Hat said, "This isn't history. It's still with us."