Amber Midthunder Shines in Magical Realism of 'How We Stand'

Marie Clements’ new film, 'How We Stand,' features Amber Midthunder in a poignant tale that blends magical realism with the stark realities of Indigenous history. Following the lives of three orphaned sisters against a backdrop of systemic trauma, the film invites viewers to reflect on the scars of the past.

Struggles and Dreams of the Past

The narrative begins in 1950s Oklahoma, where the sisters—Jessie, Miranda, and Janey—are introduced as young girls facing the aftermath of their father's absence due to WWII. Their mother, Angela, striving for a brighter future, is lured by the false promises of the Indian Relocation Act into moving to Los Angeles. Upon arrival, their dreams quickly turn to disillusionment when they find themselves in a rundown room, with no job and no safety net. Tragedy strikes at a community dance, leading to Angela's death and the sisters' separation.

Paths Diverged in a Changing World

Fast forward to 1973, the sisters have taken different paths, shaped by their traumatic experiences. Jessie has become a doctor, Miranda is an activist, and Janey is struggling with her mental health after a mysterious medical trauma. Each sister interacts with white characters who exhibit varying degrees of insidious racism, revealing the complexities of their identities in a society that marginalizes them. Clements deftly uses the sisters' journeys to critique the portrayal of Native Americans in Hollywood and the deep-rooted issues still present in society.

Magical Realism and a New Beginning

The film employs elements of magical realism, particularly in scenes where Janey confronts her psychiatrist—a man who represents a legacy of violence masked as historical preservation. As the sisters’ stories converge, Clements crafts a powerful narrative that culminates in a metaphorical cleansing, allowing the sisters to reclaim their agency and confront their past together. 'How We Stand' ultimately paints a hopeful picture of resilience and unity, as the sisters emerge stronger from their shared trauma.

Source: www.indiewire.com