A Time Capsule of Racial and Cultural Transformation

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MOVIE REVIEW
Bushman (Blu-ray)
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Genre: Drama
Year Released: 1971, 2024 Milestone Films Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 14m
Director(s): David Schickele
Writer(s): David Schickele
Cast: Paul Eyam Nzie Okpokam, Mike Slye, Elaine Featherstone
Where To Watch: available May 21, 2024; pre-order your copy here www.milestonefilms.com, www.kinolorber.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: BUSHMAN reemerges from the cinematic shadows as we journey into the turbulent waters of 1960s San Francisco. A film once thought to be lost offers a poignant snapshot of an era filled with hope and strife. Once lost to the sands of time, this restored production now serves as a crucial bridge linking past societal challenges with the present, providing a sharply focused lens through which to view them.

In BUSHMAN, the story of Gabriel (Paul Eyam Nzie Okpokam,) a Nigerian immigrant, unfolds against the dramatic backdrop of societal upheaval following the tragic assassinations of Martin Luther King Jr. and Bobby Kennedy. Gabriel’s journey is a testament to the enduring human spirit, navigating through a period marked by profound racial tensions and cultural shifts.

The University of California, Berkeley Art Museum, Pacific Film Archive, and The Film Foundation have breathed new life into this black-and-white classic. Their efforts have restored BUSHMAN to its original luster, ensuring its ironic and insightful commentary on historical and ongoing societal challenges remains impactful. Kino Lorber presents it alone with Milestone Films for all to take home and appreciate this powerful film.

Gabriel’s search for a fresh start in America begins as he flees the devastation of the Nigerian Civil War. His interactions, particularly with local motorcyclist Mike Slye, highlight the rich cultural exchanges that define his journey through a transforming America. These scenes are pivotal, as they showcase the complex dynamics of the African-American communities during this era. At times, you get pulled so far into this film that it almost feels like watching a home video or a documentary.

As the story progresses, the focus shifts to the impending expiration of Gabriel’s work visa, which mirrors the broader immigrant experience. His struggle to secure a legal foothold in the U.S. is depicted through humorous and sad encounters, shedding light on the cultural and racial misunderstandings that often surface.

Directed by David Schickele, whose filmmaking was ignited by a Peace Corps mission in Nigeria, BUSHMAN delves into the themes of displacement and cultural clash. Schickele blends documentary realism with personal drama, employing Gabriel’s direct monologues and his interactions within San Francisco’s vibrant Fillmore district to craft a film that resonates with authenticity and depth.

BUSHMAN transcends the typical film experience; it is an intelligent exploration of race, identity, and justice. By integrating actual historical events, such as the Nigerian Civil War, into its storyline, the film enhances its authenticity and underscores its relevance to current societal debates.

The journey from obscurity to revival highlights the vital role of independent cinema in challenging established societal views and stimulating essential discussions. The re-release of BUSHMAN not only rejuvenates an important artistic work but catalyzes discussions on race and democracy—topics that continue to resonate deeply in today’s societal context.

In conclusion, BUSHMAN tells the riveting story of a man caught between his heritage and the culture of his adopted country, each presenting unique challenges and biases. This film captures a defining moment in history and, through Gabriel’s personal and universal journey, offers profound insights into identity and resilience. This restored classic allows contemporary audiences to engage deeply with its themes and appreciate its enduring significance in the landscape of American cinema.

Product Extras:
Give Me a Riddle (a documentary by David Schickele, 1966, 67 minutes)
Tuscarora (a documentary by David Schickele, 1992, 58 minutes)
Audio commentary by film historian Daniel Kremer and filmmaker Rob Nilsson

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[photo courtesy of MILESTONE FILMS, KINO LORBER]

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