Little Wound's Warriors

Little Wound's Warriors is a poignant and eye-opening documentary released in 2017 that explores the struggles of survival, perseverance, and the awakening of hope. The film focuses on indigenous youth residing in Pine Ridge, South Dakota - a place infamous for its high suicide rates among teens. This mesmerizing movie stars Warren "Bim" Pourier, Jordan "Slick" Phelps, Brendon Albers, with each of them playing a significant role in bringing the narrative to life.

The film opens with an introduction to the Pine Ridge Reservation, the second largest in the nation, and home to the Oglala Lakota Sioux. The reservation's jagged edges and rustic color palette stand as a haunting reminder of the harsh conditions its inhabitants endure daily. Living amid rampant poverty, substance abuse, and unemployment, the youth of Pine Ridge face an existential struggle of carrying forward their rich culture and heritage, while also grappling with a hand of hardships dealt by a history of systemic injustice and marginalization.

Warren "Bim" Pourier features central to Little Wound's Warriors, both as a beacon of hope and a binding thread that links the different narrative segments. Pourier's resilience and dedication illuminate the screen, serving as a testament to the potential that rests within the population of Pine Ridge. We're also introduced to Jordan "Slick" Phelps, a young man fond of Basketball, finding respite and purpose in a sport that he shares with his fellow community members. Brendon Albers provides a poignant narrative weave, embodying the spirit of persistence and passion in the face of adversity.

The film's title comes from a prominent high school on the reservation - Little Wound. This institution becomes a central metaphor, mirroring the struggles of the reservation and its attempt at healing and recovery. The Little Wound's High School basketball team, The Mustangs, is the community's rallying point, offering glimmers of pride and aspiration amid the numbing despair that presses down upon the reservation.

Basketball in Little Wound's Warriors takes on a symbolic meaning. It's not merely a sport but a lifeline for the reservation's youth. It provides them an escape route from their harsh realities, even if only momentarily. Most importantly, it shows them the possibility of a different future, unchained from the oppressive past and the grim present. The narrative does a fantastic job extrapolating on the importance of this game to the community.

The film also dives into the deep cultural and traditional roots that these young warriors carry. Even as modernity vies for their attention, the ancient roots hold them grounded. It recognizes the power and importance of traditional ceremonies, customs, and the Lakota language, asserting their relevance as cultural anchors for a society marked by constant struggle.

The work of the film's director, Seth McClellan, is worth noting. McClellan navigates the challenging terrain of Pine Ridge with an observational eye for its unique beauty and stark reality, while simultaneously rendering vitality and urgency to his subjects. The film does not shy away from showcasing the harsh truths of life on the reservation. Still, it balances this with moments of joy, camaraderie, and the relentless spirit of resistance imbued in its youth.

Through the lens of basketball and the daily lives of its residents, Little Wound's Warriors presents a brave and unflinching portrait of life, struggle, and survival in one of the United States' most impoverished regions. It is a testament to the indomitable spirit, teamwork, resilience, and the unwavering belief of the young in a better tomorrow, even when their surroundings suggest otherwise.

In conclusion, Little Wound's Warriors is more than just a film. It is a compelling call to action, a daring exposition of an overlooked corner of American society, and a touching testament to the resilience of human spirit. It challenges viewers to rethink their understanding of the American Dream and the price some pay to keep it alive. The performances from Warren "Bim" Pourier, Jordan "Slick" Phelps, and Brendon Albers strike a chord, immensely contributing to the film's overall impact. It's a must-watch for those seeking to understand the hidden narratives woven into America's rich cultural tapestry.