Dance Me Outside

I'm a (non-Indian)racial minority who usually likes to see a political message in "ethnic" movies. This isn't really an "ethnic movie," though. "Dance Me Outside" is an indie comedy-drama about 90's life on an Ontario rez, with a mostly Native cast, but it is lovable by Americans of many different cultural backgrounds. It is also by all accounts one of the best movies I have ever seen. There are an (unfortunately small) handful of subversive movies referencing the colonial experience which shock us/force us out of our "cultural relativism comfort zone." Such movies {e.g. "Clearcut," "The Battle of Algiers,") shock us because they reflect the natural bitterness and residual hate of cultural clash; colonialism, genocide, and outright invasion and land theft are uncomfortable things that make us feel uncomfortable when we're forced to confront them. "Dance Me Outside" as an "ethnic" narrative works in entirely the opposite fashion, but it works brilliantly. This movie is the bomb, people.Director Bruce McDonald, a non-Indian, has co-written a fabulous snappy script (based on Kinsella's story)that is almost literally back-to-back one-liners:immensely quotable. Every type of humor--from broad physical to ironic wry humor--is at work here. McDonald's approach to directing is obviously well thought-out, yet we never sense him at work when we are watching; all we see are the loose, engaging, charming results--this movie unfolds almost effortlessly, seamlessly. I dare anyone to say they feel uncomfortable while watching this movie, even during its so-called "darker" moments. Euro-Americans will be comforted to know that "Dance Me Outside" is not an in-your-face political Indian movie, of the afore mentioned type. Conversely, even I, exasperated with the sympathetic portrayal of Whites in most movies about minorities, can not help but be charmed by Kevin Hicks' bumbling, well-meaning "white husband" character. This brings us to the other shining strength of the movie: the awesome, awesome ensemble cast. Ryan Black is too witty, good-humored, and genuine to be a superstar. He simply has too much personality to be a Hollywood star. His natural elegance and affability really anchor this movie; holding it all together, he's like a rock--WHAT a breakout performance. The more widely-known Adam Beach has done his best work here. He is completely charming, disarming, and engaging--a reflection of the spirit of the whole movie. I heard he almost didn't get cast in this role; say a prayer of thanks that he did, because the naturalism of his performance--while, by nature of the character, not as subtle or as elegant as Black's-- is astonishing. The Podemski sisters are delightful, especially Jennifer as the feisty, down-to-earth girlfriend. Her younger sister has a smaller role, to which she brings every bit as much spirit, sass, and conviction. In fact, no role in "Dance" is too small for its actor to give it the attention it deserves. The wryness of the all-knowing mother, the sophistication and intelligence of Lisa LaCroix as Illianna, and, of course, the presence of Michael Greyeyes, who injects into his tough-guy role as ex-con Gooch the most poignant and believable undercurrent of vulnerability: the beauty of this movie is in its detail. Sandrine Holt ("Black Robe"), here as Poppy, in a forgettable performance, perhaps unfairly gets star billing, but this is a minor flaw indeed. Each and every character reaches out to you. Even the racist skinheads are likeable!Most people should be able to watch this movie three or four times consecutively, easy. It's that light, refreshing, and well-crafted. It's that good. All elements of "Dance Me Outside"--screenplay, cast, editing, and the kickin' mixed Indian and mainstream soundtrack--converge as though by divine design to form a near-perfect piece of film narrative. I don't want to compare it to that OTHER recent movie about rez youth because they're two different movies with different goals in mind, but, as good as "Smoke Signals" is, "Dance Me Outside" kills it. I don't know how--both have superb casts and musical scores--but "Dance Me Outside" is better. I think it's the effortlessness of it. "Dance Me Outside" is good enough to be used in film schools as an instruction manual on independent films. Don't even bother to rent it. You may as well buy it, if you're going to buy a movie this year, or ever again. It will make you feel so at ease you may then choose to go out and see a subversive hard-hitting political movie to counteract the sheer buoyancy and joy of "Dance me Outside"--although I think finding a movie that could eclipse this much charm would be pretty hard.

Love this movie!

After some consideration, I determine that this isn't for everybody. However, for the Native Americans community I believe it will be one to watch over and over. And will be, the soundtrack is good as well. The movie itself could be any other community and neighborhood in America. Any other group of teenager out looking for mischief and things to do. Finding love, experiencing the other side of love and growing up through all the things happening with them and with others around them. l Iike to think that others would also enjoy this movie. It is a good movie, well written and directed. I challenge everybody to add it to your collection. Do it today while you are thinking about it. I for one am glad that I purchased this movie for myself. Get your's today...

MMIW a sad and serious problem. This movie brings it to the minds of the viewer in a relatable form

I watched this move last night. I thought it was well-acted and it held my attention. I may even watch it again tonight. The story centers around two best friends on an Indian Reservation in Canada. They want to go to a school in a big city to become mechanics but don't seem in any particular rush to accomplish this. The movie is part comedy but not entirely as viewers will find out for themselves upon watching. The ending was a bit of a surprise. I don't want to ruin the movie so will stop here. I can see this being a cult classic. If you like Smoke Signals you should very much like this movie.

Excellent Movie! This movie is a prime Example of why the "MMIW Movement" is SO Important. Things like this happen ALL the time on the Reservation. The original People of this land have always been treated disrespectfully & as Non-Citizens of this country. I wish more People were aware of this Movie. Watch the Movie as they are Real People, And the color of their skin should not matter...

It is rare when you find a movie that comes back to memory for the rest of your life. This is one of those little films that sticks with you.The story has a modern day Native American cast. The characters fight injustice in their own way, and in doing so, learn what they are made of.Buy it - You will like it.

This movie is hilarious and ON the money how Rez life is... There are a lot of people not giving great reviews but over all it boils down to the different way of thinking culturally. Everything depicted in the movie may seem silly to those on the outside (of Indigenous cultural thinking) looking in, but for those who are Spiritually connected have a better understanding of the reasons of some of the situations ex: Illiana's marital situation...some see it as wrong but others see it differently.Over all it is a GREAT film!

Diese DVD MUSS man einfach haben!! Bin ein großer Fan von allem was die American Natives und First Nations betrifft. Fast alle Filme muss ich (meist über Amazon) in den USA und Kanada bestellen, weil sie nie in Deutschland erscheinen (werden).'Dance Me Outside' ist eine gute Mischung aus Humor, Ernsthaftigkeit und dem Leben in einem Reservat. Keine Minute langweilig.

"Dance me outside" ist ein absoluter Kultfilm mit toller Musik und einem überraschenden Ende. Die Story ist spannend, sehr humorvoll und mit tollen indianischen Darstellern umgesetzt.Die Bildqualität ist ok. Man muss ja schon zufrieden sein, dass es diesen Film überhaupt auf DVD gibt.Leider leider fehlt die englische Tonspur. Das geht eigentlich gar nicht, aber weil der Film so gut ist vergebe ich trotzdem 5 Sterne!

Ich kann mich meinen Vorgängern nur anschließen! Toller Film, klasse Schauspieler, sehr gute Story mit überraschendem Ende. Leider, leider fehlt die englische Spur, auch wenn die Übersetzung gut ist. Aber so manche Kommentare passen im Original einfach besser. Auf youtube kann man übrigens mal hereinhören!Für Liebhaber der Native Americans( oder kanadisch besser "First Nations") ein Muss!

Excellent movie

It has cardboard cover. But then thinking about it, could be an environmental cover instead of plastic. CD's play nice. Was nice to be able to order a show I loved watching, many moons ago.