Ohiyesa: The Soul of An Indian

Ohiyesa: The Soul of an Indian is a profoundly moving and enlightening documentary feature released in 2018, directed by Syd Beane and produced by Diane Fraher, who have magnificently brought to life the extraordinary life journey of Charles Eastman, aka Ohiyesa. The biography-like documentary highlights the saga of Eastman’s life, an iconic figure who left an indelible mark in shaping the Native American history and culture. The film features Eastman's great-granddaughter, Kate Beane, who critically contributed to this film by lending her voice-over narration to the narrative journey of Ohiyesa.

The film delves into the facets of Eastman's growth from his early childhood, where he was known amongst his people as Ohiyesa, contrasting it to his later adult life as Charles Eastman. With the primary focus being on encompassing both aspects, Ohiyesa successfully brings to light the trials and tribulations faced by Eastman during his formative and developmental years. This cultural bifurcation and dual identity of Eastman lay the thematic foundation of this documentary.

Born in the Dakota Territory during the downfall of Dakota people in the U.S., Eastman was initially raised in a traditional Dakota way, before he was re-introduced to the colonized world and was christened as Charles Eastman. The narrative, observing Eastman’s evolving life chapters, provides a mesmerizing glimpse into the identity crisis and cultural dichotomy he faced while trying to straddle two contrasting ways of life.

Ohiyesa: The Soul of an Indian is exemplary in its depiction of the social hardships and systemic stratification daunting the life of Eastman as he battles through societal biases and struggles of conformity and acceptance. Simultaneously, the film poses Eastman not merely as a victim but as an epoch-making figure who was instrumental in bridging the cultural gap between Native American tribes and the post-colonial world.

The film educatively engages its audience by showcasing a plethora of black and white photographs, historical documents, and illustrations, properly annotated with dates and specifics, reference points in history that parallel Eastman’s life story. The use of such archival material affords a tangible sense of historical authentication, grounding the narrative firmly within the non-fictional realm.

The film stands out for the voice-over narration by Eastman's descendant, Kate Beane, which weaves a personal connection and undeniable authenticity to the narrative. Beane’s narration provides invaluable insight into the life of Eastman, piecing together historical aspects of the past with an underpinning of familial familiarity. Her efforts in oozing out the legacy of Eastman gives another life to the overall narrative.

Ohiyesa: The Soul of an Indian also underscores Eastman's contributions as a writer, physician, government official, and an advocate for the rights and welfare of American Indians. The storytelling enters profound territories as it explores his perspective on Native American spirituality, the healing power of indigenous practices, and the challenges and triumphs he encountered as a Native American navigating the white world.

The authenticity of the accounts presented in this documentary is further bolstered by scholarly interviews from notable individuals like Philip J. Deloria, Brenda Child, and Raymond Wilson. Their expert viewpoint boosts the narrative, providing the audience with a broader perspective on Eastman’s life against the backdrop of the historical era he existed in.

Stylistically, Ohiyesa maintains a balance between an essayistic and an interview-based approach. It allocates ample screen time to insightful discourses, rare photographs, and thoughtful narrations. The resulting narrative is a visually appealing exploration, coupled with engaging dialogue that unfolds Eastman's inspiring journey steeped in history.

Ohiyesa: The Soul of an Indian is a crowning achievement of a thought-provoking and spiritually uplifting biographical documentary. It harks back to a historic era, breathing life into the narrative through the use of distinguished story-telling techniques. This must-watch film offers an enlightening perspective on the lived experiences of Charles Eastman and his remarkable journey from being Ohiyesa to an inspiring intermediary between two remarkably distinct cultures. It is a piece of narrative brilliance that invigorates the historical accounts of an iconic figure who has largely contributed to shaping modern Native American history.