Neither Wolf Nor Dog

Neither Wolf Nor Dog, directed by Steven Lewis Simpson and released in 2016, tells the engrossing and symbolic story of an unanticipated journey. With actors such as Dave Bald Eagle, Christopher Sweeney, and Richard Ray Whitman delivering exceptional performances, the movie unfolds a tale that offers profound perspectives about cultural misunderstanding, heritage, and human connection.

The movie's plot revolves around the character of Kent Nerburn (played by Christopher Sweeney), a well-intentioned author who receives a mysterious phone call from a Native American elder which plunges him into an unplanned odyssey across the heart of the native American landscape. The call is from Dan, a Lakota Elder, artfully portrayed by Dave Bald Eagle, who requests that Kent writes a book about his life and his people's history from his perspective. Despite initial reluctance, Kent eventually acquiesces, and this change of heart sets in motion the intriguing plotline of Neither Wolf Nor Dog.

A significant part of the movie involves Kent's journey into the Lakota Country – consisting of expansive landscapes and sites, which hold deep cultural and historical importance to the Lakota people. Accompanying Kent and Dan on this journey is Grover (Richard Ray Whitman), Dan's protective confidant, who also serves as a constant reminder of the tensions, history, and misunderstandings existing between Native Americans and outsiders.

The trio's journey is not a simple one. Rather it is fraught with humor, tension and tragedy, all woven together to create a narrative that is both poignant and enlightening. As the trip progresses, Kent is made to grapple with gaping cultural chasms and the painful history of a people who have long been misrepresented. As he is pushed out of his comfort zone into an unfamiliar world of native American history and life, Kent experiences a personal transformation that confronts his own preconceived notions and biases.

The portrayal of characters in the movie is exceedingly organic. Dave Bald Eagle plays Dan with moving authenticity. He imparts wisdom, shares stories, and recounts painful histories with a performance that entirely consumes your attention. His character captures the humor, wisdom, and melancholy that paints the real picture of the life of the Native American elders who have survived the test of times.

Christopher Sweeney as Kent Nerburn does an exceptional job as well. Sweeney’s performance is relatable as the author uneased by the truths he is forced to confront. He is the embodiment of the outsider looking in, striving to bridge a gap that is seemingly insurmountable. The connection that develops between the characters of Kent, Dan, and Grover, forged through shared experiences and the truths revealed during their journey, underlines the narrative of the movie.

Neither Wolf Nor Dog also beautifully encapsulates the serene and silent beauty of the American landscape, serving as a backdrop to the unfolding journey and casting a hypnotic spell over the audience. The cinematography marries well with the narrative, helping to further immerse viewers in the heartfelt exploration of culture and history.

The movie does not shy away from tough topics. It brings to the forefront a realistic portrayal of native American history, lined with misrepresentation and suffering. However, it manages to do so without being preachy, by instead allowing the characters’ personal stories, experiences, and wisdom to lead the way. In doing so, the movie strikes a careful balance between morality, history, and compelling story-telling, which altogether makes for a deeply moving cinematic experience.

In conclusion, Neither Wolf Nor Dog is a heartfelt, soul-searching journey fit to captivate audience members from start to finish. With its poignant script, beautiful landscapes, and authentic performances, it carries the viewer through a profound exploration of Native American history and culture, as seen through the eyes of those who have lived it. The movie succeeds in providing a moving depiction of the complexities and richness of Native American life and history, ultimately showing that sometimes the longest of journeys can lead to the most unexpected of understandings.