MOVIE REVIEW
Wilfred Buck
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Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 32m
Director(s): Lisa Jackson
Where To Watch: world premiere at the 2024 CPH:DOX Film Festival

RAVING REVIEW: Lisa Jackson's WILFRED BUCK takes us on an eye-opening and visually arresting journey. This isn't your standard documentary-drama blend; it's a heartfelt invitation to delve into the resilience and wisdom of Indigenous cultures through the life of Wilfred Buck, a Cree (a North American Indigenous people. They live primarily in Canada, where they form one of the country's largest First Nations) Elder. The film reaches out like the vast North American landscapes it portrays, offering a narrative rich in ancestral knowledge, particularly about the cosmos and our connection to nature.

The movie's charm lies in its ability to tackle a rich narrative fabric that brings forth the spirit and struggles of Indigenous peoples. Jackson challenges the historical narrative through a creative mix of interviews, archival footage, and dramatic reenactments, illuminating Wilfred Buck's profound insights and teachings. The journey of the buffalo, from a symbol of prosperity to hardship, is a powerful metaphor for the trials and resilience of Indigenous communities.

WILFRED BUCK has challenges. At times, the film's ambitious narrative feels almost too all-encompassing, causing it to lose focus and causing its thematic threads to be less straightforward than they could be. Yet, when Buck shares his life's wisdom, the film finds its anchor, transforming into a profound narrative that merges history with deep truths.

Jackson's call to recognize and value Indigenous knowledge resonates throughout the film, making WILFRED BUCK a call to action for understanding and reconciliation. Jackson navigates the film's complex themes with finesse, blending different narrative styles to help us along this reflective journey that questions identity, heritage, and the interconnectedness of life. Her ability to do so with visual elegance and narrative depth has not gone unnoticed, earning critical acclaim and showcasing her filmmaking prowess.

WILFRED BUCK stands out as a cinematic achievement that bridges gaps, challenges stereotypes, and highlights the untold stories of Indigenous cultures. Through her visionary direction, Jackson has crafted a film that speaks to a broad audience, offering a glimpse into the life of an extraordinary individual while casting a spotlight on the broader struggles and triumphs of Indigenous peoples.

Despite some narrative struggles, the film's commitment to storytelling, its exploration of vitally essential themes, and its homage to Indigenous traditions remain compelling. WILFRED BUCK is an educational and inspiring journey that broadens our understanding and appreciation of Indigenous resilience and wisdom. Jackson's contribution to cinema enriches the landscape and is a vital bridge toward understanding the richness of Indigenous stories and knowledge systems. Through WILFRED BUCK, Jackson invites audiences to reflect on the beauty and complexity of Indigenous life and wisdom, offering a rare insight into the profound connection between people, their traditions, and the natural world. This film is more than just a testament to Wilfred Buck's legacy; it also serves as a pivotal moment in documentary filmmaking, emphasizing the crucial role of storytelling in fostering empathy, respect, and a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of human experience.

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[photo courtesy of DOOR NUMBER 3, NATIONAL FILM BOARD OF CANADA]

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