On the Ice (2011)

On the Ice (2011). 1h 36m | R

“This film is a triumph of Alaskan narrative filmmaking. Showing Alaskan Natives as they really live, including old traditions, dance, and hunting, next to cell phones, hip hop, and drugs. It doesnu0026#39;t get tied up on trying to show the beauty of Alaska, and neither the exoticness of itu0026#39;s peoples. Instead, it uses them to further itu0026#39;s themes and plot. Incredibly sensitive, honest, and entertaining.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eWhile itu0026#39;s easy to say this is a movie about the evils of drugs, or the ability of the arctic landscape to drive one to insanity, the film gracefully dodges such easy targets and focuses on a story about a young man trying to grow up and a community dealing with a tragedy, which are much more open ended, accessible ideas. This allows those without any knowledge of Native Alaskans, or Alaska even, to become entranced by the story.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eDonu0026#39;t let the non-pro cast turn you away, either. It is all native persons (no Asians pretending to native American), and the direction makes sure theyu0026#39;re up to snuff to all other films by mature filmmakers.”