Angela’s Shadow is a thoughtful film that pulls back the curtain on a shameful time in Canada, which was, as per usual, perpetrated by self-important Europeans on a “mission from God.” Most of the history of the Western world can be summed up by describing a thriving indigenous culture and what happens to it after these a******s show up.
“…beautiful visually and sonically…”
There are many layers to the narrative here, from indigenous belief in the spirits to the evils of cultural oppression to the radical differences in how a person is perceived based solely on skin tone. It does leave a few questions unanswered, such as how Angela ever came to be with someone like Henry. That seems unlikely on the face of it. Also, while it’s clear that Henry represents European arrogance and lack of insight, he initially starts out with a learning mind, interested and engaged in finding out about Cree culture. The Cree missed an opportunity by icing him out and treating him as an interloper. They could have tried to lead him to a more enlightened view. He was primed to go there. The logic of the film is primarily emotional.
Angela’s Shadow is beautiful visually and sonically, and the performances are solid. The story educates us about the horrors endured by indigenous peoples in Canada, as well as telling a compelling story of a physical and spiritual journey.
"…a compelling story of a physical and spiritual journey."
