In The Land Of The War Canoes

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Summary: Amazing glimpse into native american folklore
Review: A fascinating docu-dramatization of an ancient folk legend of Vancouver's Kwakiutl indians... This ethnological tour-de-force has a compelling, if simple, plot, of bloodshed, revenge and justice, but is really noteworthy for its vibrant presentation of the Kwakiutl culture, especially their rich heritage of wood carving, fabric arts, costuming and dance. The animal-spirit costumes are truly amazing, as are the huge canoes and painted lodges. An amazing glimpse at the world of the Pacific Northwest, before white men came, filmed over a three years period by documentarian and folklorist Edward S. Curtis. Highly recommended.

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Summary: Edward S. Curtis' 1912 documentary of the Kwakiutl Indians
Review: Filmmaker Edward S. Curtis devoted his life to documenting the declining Native American cultures. In this 1914 film, Curtis tells a story about love and revenge among the Kwakiutl tribe of Vancouver Island. Curtis spent three years amongst the Kwakiutl as they recreated their way of life before the arrival of the white man. Not only does this film offer up the magnificent painted war canoes of the title, but the authentic costumes, ceremonial dances and religious rituals. In 1972 this historic film was restored form the only surviving print. The soundtrack uses traditional music and chants recorded by the Kwakiutls themselves and this DVD includes a Making-of-Documentary "The Image Maker and the Indians." Added in 1999 to National Film Registry, "In The Land Of The War Canoes," this film remains a potent record of a lost way of life. At 43 minutes, it is just about the perfect length for a junior high or high school class period.

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Summary: Awsome
Review: I loved the dancing singing and the display of art My husbands grandfather was Henry Bell in the movie so our family loves to hear him giving the speach we watch it often. We also live in the area where the film was made and know of many of the actors I highly recommend this movie for the show of its art and my favorite part is when they are dancing in the canoes.