Blog post
The experimental film I went to go see for this assignment is Maɬni – Towards the Ocean, Towards the Shore, directed by Sky Hopinka. The film follows two people of Chinook ancestry, Sweetwater Sahme, and Jordan Mercier as they walk through their home in the Columbia River Badin. They discuss their journey in life, their families, and their views on the afterlife. Hopinka gives them equal screen time by filming them separately as they share their stories. In the film, I noticed the subtitles would change when each subject would speak. When Sahme speaks in English the subtitles are in Cinuk Wawa. When Mercire speaks in Cinuk Wawa the subtitles are in English
As we follow Sahme in the forest, we learn that she is expecting her first child. Sahme’s plan is to give birth in the same living room her grandmother has passed away in. She believes that her grandma’s presence is still in the home and that her grandmother is going to help her bring life into this world. Sahme goes on to say that she does believe in reincarnation due to the strong connection she has with her grandmother.
Most of the time we spent with Sahme was near the waterfall, it is her favorite spot because it brings her peace, and she likes to stare at the beauty of nature surrounding the forest. It allows her the private space to think. We also spend time with Sahme in her living room. This is where she talks about her childhood memories. Her mother raised her as a single parent. She is grateful for the strength her mother has put in her and hopes to be as great a mother as she was to her growing up.
Mercier is expecting his second child. When asked about why he grew his hair long, he explains that it is the way his ancestors had it and it’s a way to honor his tribe. Every time his hair grows longer it makes him feel stronger. As he gets older, he learns more about his ancestors and that is why he continues with his journey in life. Most of the time spent with Mecier we see him at special events with his tribe. He takes his wife and daughter with him, which is a great way to keep the tradition going. Mecier’s wife ends up giving birth to their son, Vincent. Mecier shares that every time he sings his grandfather’s song to his son, Vincent becomes well. The song will continue to be passed on to the next generation.
When Hopinka explores the cycle of life we see images of the sea, forest, and sky. Both subjects see the transition into the next life as a peaceful and beautiful part of life. Hopinka shoots long takes of the gathering of the confederated tribes throughout the film. This helps the audience learn much about the Chinook culture. We see clips of drummers. singers and dancers. We also see Mercier contribute to all these activities and see how committed he is to his tribe. The film allowed us to explore the lives and culture of the Chinookan.