A deeply moving film p Having lived in Alaska for 7 years after moving from Europe, I was pleasantly surprised when I found this film recently. The film portrays the needed sensitivity to other cultures and shows how misguided we can be to judge cultures with our own values. the simplicity and realism found in the story's plot makes for a moving experience as it is easy to relate to the priest's perspective. As the film progresses you find your own feelings and prejudices are revealed and altered.
Definately recommended, prepare to be stuck by the elegance of this film.
Nice reflection of an Alaska Native Community in the 70's I'm an Alaska Native and grew up in a small town in the Southeast. I'm in my early 50's now, and many times I moved to "the lower 48" to work or live with family. Very strange-- There is an urging when you're younger to move outside of Alaska because it's so remote compared to Stateside. You miss all the malls and variety of places to eat and things to do. After living south for a while, I would start missing the trees, mountain, streams and water where I grew up. When I would become fed up with living south, on some channel on tv, I would find this movie! I would see the trees, all the water and beauty, and within a short time I'd be packing to return to Alaska! This movie became my signal more than a few times to return home. Anyway, I enjoyed the movie and listening to the older people in the village reminded me of my own elders as I grew up in Alaska. I love this movie, the only reason it got one star less is because I wish they would have put out the mini series copy instead of the movie length version. Hoka Hey! And enjoy!
A Short Owl "I Heard The Owl Call My Name" was shown as a television mini-series in 1973. It was wonderful, and I'm afraid the tape I just received is a chopped up, over-edited and miserable version. The events, characters and dialog are the video less-than equivalent of Cliff Notes. Wish I hadn't wasted my money No quality with this release, that's for certain.
Don't miss the book, but skip the movie altogether I bought this video because I truly loved the book it was based on. What a dis-service was done to Margaret Craven's fine work. The characterization was completely changed, significant parts of the plot were altered, as well as the essential meaning of her uplifting story. The very reasons the young vicar was successful in the village were lost in the terrible characterization of his movie persona. If you love this book, steer clear of this movie. You will be sorely disappointed. If you love this movie, try reading the book. I believe you will find a very pleasant surprise awaiting you. As I read the favorable reviews, I was struck by the fact that they could find the very things they appreciated about the video in abundance, without the bitterness that the movies seemed compelled to promote. I realize that this was the popular style of 1970's movies, but it was a shame to bring this element into an otherwise very positive and life affirming story.
Realistic--Great! My wife and I live in a primarily Native Alaskan Communmity far north of where this movie took place. But the setting and the people and the rich profile of a primarily-subsistence, Native community seems to be right on target. All of the actors do a first-rate job, and the movie is a fine blend of aspirations,and idealism with the realities of Bush Alaska life. We watch it every Christmas and often times inbetween. Enjoy!
Anything Goes Trivia
Trevor
Megaton Man
