Directed by Jesse Short Bull and Laura Tomaselli, written by Layli Long Soldier, a chronicle about how the Lakota Indians fight to reclaim control of the Black Hills. Will investigate how the sacred land was stolen in violation of treaty agreements and feature interviews with Indigenous citizens.

It’s a genuinely wonderful thing that Native American stories are finally being told more frequently, authentically and across every genre of cinema. Lakota Nation vs. United States is another superb example, diving into the past and the present, the history of the Lakota and their ongoing battle to reclaim their land. One of the interesting elements is how these moments of history that it explores may be unknown to viewers because it’s a poignant example of how little these issues are covered by the media. Standing Rock feels like the sole instance where it made headline news and a lot of that had to do with celebrities being arrested.

That’s one of many different ways that Lakota Nation vs. United States captures the treatment of Native Americans and it’s an eye-opening experience. The injustice of it all might not be a surprise given how well documented their mistreatment is, but the extent of it is quite shocking. A perfect example of which being the Dakota 38, a shocking moment of history and one that should be explored more often. It shows the need for balance, that while progression was being made in the era of Lincoln, the atrocities still continued and yet are largely ignored in favour of glamourising a harsh time. Some of the information is genuinely unsettling to learn, as it should be, and the film communicates that well with striking a powerful, clear note.

Jesse Short Bull and Laura Tomaselli create a compelling atmosphere to enrobe this story, it’s sombre and poetic but also infuriating. It strikes the best of both worlds, the artistry and heritage that the Lakota have to offer but it never forgets the burning anger at the constant injustices that they have faced. One of the other key elements that they capture is the love of nature, how the Lakota respect the land and want to do what’s best for it, to not see it ruined. It also does a fantastic job of opening up the perspective, it truly lets you see things through their eyes.

Lakota Nation vs. United States has a beautifully eloquent rage and a powerful presence. It tells you the Lakota’s story in their own words, it’s letting you inside their community rather than simply giving an overview of it. It’s dipping into a great deal of different issues which range over hundreds of years, following a constant battle, the nature of it may change but there’s always conflict burning because the mistreatment endlessly continues. You could probably explore this story much further but this is an excellent beginning.

Verdict: ✯✯✯✯ | 8/10

EXCLUSIVELY IN NY THEATERS JULY 14, 2023 – EXPANDING TO LA & ADDITIONAL THEATERS JULY 21, 2023

blackhillsjustice.org | landback.org