Directed by Sinakson Trevor Solway, amidst a sweeping Prairies backdrop, Siksika men and boys learn to embrace the intricacies of self-discovery, identity and love in a world that often misunderstands and stigmatizes them.
Sinakson Trevor Solway takes a step back approaching Siksikakowan: The Blackfoot Man, the style he employs is casual yet purposeful. It moves in a way that’s slightly reminiscent of Endless Cookie, allowing conversations and moments to elapse naturally, with no interference or prompting. Solway weaves together the different elements of masculinity within their community, capturing the present while allowing their stories to also explore the past, and how it influenced their perspective.
It’s a fascinating subject, particularly as it’s within a community with such traditional values, which can often result in old-fashioned attitudes towards the role of men, and their emotions. Which is what makes it even more interesting to watch these men be open, honest and aware of the stigma and negative influences. Especially when it’s captured with some excellent imagery, the strength of the visuals is something that’s consistent all throughout Siksikakowan: The Blackfoot Man.
Although taking such a strictly observational style and focusing on a lot of quieter moments, will likely be divisive with viewers as it can feel meandering. There’s no attempt to make it into more of a consistent discussion, there are small anecdotes weaved into capturing their everyday lives. Something that hinders it from creating a smoother flow, and building upon itself. The story they want to convey is certainly there within those layers, but it does feel like it could have used a guide to bring it all together, rather than simply letting everything speak for itself. Though you can certainly admire the intention to remain respectful and sensitive towards the members of the community.
Siksikakowan: The Blackfoot Man interestingly explores the different elements that influence modern masculinity within the Siksika Nation. There’s some wonderful imagery at work, and Solway manages to say a lot with those visuals. The subjects and topic were all great choices, but it can feel like it’s meandering a touch too much. It’s missing something to pull it all together and to delve deeper, to really tie together the stories and visuals, for a bigger impact. It can feel scattered, purely letting things play out rather than pushing to open a bigger conversation but it has a big heart and a strong message.
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