‘Indian Horse’ movie poster. Photo submitted
Lakeland College Vermilion will be offering two screenings of the Clint Eastwood film, ‘Indian Horse’ at the Alumni Theatre on June 19, at 12:30 p.m. and 6:45 p.m. The screenings are part of Lakeland College’ Reconciliation Speaker Series, and an opening prayer and short presentation will precede each screening. According to www.cbc.ca, the film tells the story of a young Ojibwe boy who is torn from his family and forced into a residential school, where he is forbidden to speak his language and faces brutal punishment for the tiniest transgressions. His only solace comes from a sheet of ice, and his love of hockey eventually carries him to stardom; however, his past continues to haunt him. Though the film covers tough subjects, it shines a light on truth and reconciliation, the impact of residential schools, and coping with trauma. The film is much anticipated as area actor, Tristen Marty-Pahtaykan, from Frog Lake First Nation played a role in the film. Based on Richard Wagamese’s novel, the film portrays the story of a young Indigenous boy and his challenges and triumphs. Marty-Pahtaykan said that the thing he liked most about filming ‘Indian Horse’ was meeting unique people (connecting as one). “By helping to bring the story to the big screen, it has created opportunities to help Indigenous and non-Indigenous people form reconciliation, and create profound awareness and understanding of Indigenous people. It features a very strong story that gives light of what happened in the history of Canada. ‘Indian Horse’ gives a voice to all Indigenous people with a very deep emotional performance in a major motion picture in Canada. ‘Indian Horse’ is a must see!” said Marty-Pahtaykan. He went on to say that his experience included hands-on learning and going deep into the history of racism, ‘which is still happening today’. “As a professional actor, we still learn when we are on set working. Staying in character is a challenge while doing rehearsals for the fighting scenes. Method acting is good to work on (staying in character until it’s time to de-role at the end of the day),” said Marty-Pahtaykan. As one of the Marty Brothers (along with Samuel and Ricky Marty Jr. who are also actors), his passion for acting has led Tristen to film as far away as Budapest and Scotland. “I’ve also supported my younger brother, Samuel, while he was living out in Santa Fe by flying down to keep him company. It’s a pretty exciting career if you want it to be. In my career, I love being able to represent all of the Indigenous people out there in the world,” said Marty-Pahtaykan. “Both showings are open to the public and free of charge. Everyone is welcome to attend,” said Clint Chocan, Lakeland College Manager of Indigenous Support Services. The film is rated (PG-13) recommending parental guidance for disturbing content including violence and mature subject matter; some involving children. Those interested are asked to RSVP to ensure accommodation by emailing clint.chocan@lakelandcollege.ca or calling 780-871-5444 to reserve a seat. For more information, you can visit http://www.indianhorse.ca.
Actor, Tristen Marty- Pahtaykan, from Frog Lake First Nation who played a role in the film, ‘Indian Horse.’ Photo submitted;
photo credit: Antonia Arlia Photography