Keepers of the Game

Keepers of the Game is a heartwarming and inspiriting documentary released in 2016. Directed by Judd Ehrlich, the film prominently features Tsiotenhariio Herne, Jacelyn Lazore, and Mimi Lazore, portraying a compelling story that dives deep into the relationship between cultural heritage, sports, and the remarkable strength of the human spirit. This movie challenges stereotypical norms, inspiring viewers to break barriers and stand against any odds.

Keepers of the Game takes root in the heart of the Akwesasne Mohawk Territory, a native community in upstate New York. It shines a light on the contemporary realities and challenges faced by the indigenous community through the lens of a group of high school athletes. Narrating an uplifting tale of perseverance and rebellion, the film centers primarily around the girls' lacrosse team of Salmon River High School.

Since time immemorial, lacrosse has been far more than just a game to the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois Confederacy), of which the Akwesasne Mohawks are a part; it's an essential element of their identity and spirituality, traditionally a medicine game that carries a deep ancestral significance. However, the ancient customs maintained by the Mohawks dictated a clear gender divide in the sport, where the holy game was solely limited to the male members of the tribe.

Still, in a commendable defiance of cultural norms, the girls of Salmon River High School decide to form a lacrosse team. Coupling dedication and sheer will, these spirited young women make history by challenging the patriarchal traditional normatics of their culture. Judd Ehrlich articulately showcases the balance these girls maintain between honoring their rich indigenous heritage while also extending their tribe's traditions into uncharted territories.

The members of the team, Tsiotenhariio Herne, Jacelyn Lazore, Mimi Lazore, among others, are beautifully portrayed in the film. Encounter their struggles to maintain their the tribe's acceptance while living up to their personal and collective ambitions. Ehrlich gives an in-depth insight into these individuals, elaborating on their aspirations, worries, and resilient spirit that adds a captivating personal element to the narrative.

Parallel to the girls' fight for acceptance in sports, Keepers of the Game also explores the broader canvas of socio-economic challenges that plague the Akwesasne Mohawk Community. It imparts insightful exposés about economic deprivation, lack of social recognition, much-needed educational reviews, and the hauntingly escalating suicide rates among the Territory youths. In the wake of these fierce battles, the documentary expresses how the love of lacrosse transforms into their avenue of hope and their resolute assertion of indigenous identity.

Moreover, the film excels in a poignant exploration of complex themes of identity, empowerment, and the complex relationship between tradition and modernity, reminding audiences that sports can indeed serve as a powerful catalyst for social change. It’s an uplifting tale of resilience, of young women standing for what they believe and their commitment to paving the way for future generations.

What distinctly elevates the film's quality is its beautifully crafted cinematography, capturing the scenic allure of the tribal land and the zeal of the players. The effective storyline coupled with strong emotional undertones invites the audience into a unique cultural landscape, prompting them to rethink their understanding of indigenous lives and the cultural significance of time-honored sports traditions.

Keepers of the Game is more than just an enlightening documentary about a group of girls breaking barriers in their sport. It’s an emotionally charged tribute to a community’s courage to adapt and evolve, always remembering their ancestral roots. It's a film of resilience, empowering audiences with its impressive depiction of young women challenging norms, truths about identity, and the power of sports as both a balm and a battleground.

The film is filled with hope, strength, and the spirit of rebellion. It is a testament to the young athletes' unwavering resolve and passion, making it a must-watch as a profound social commentary and an extraordinary sporting tale.