Jazzy" is a 2024 American drama directed by Morrisa Maltz, known for her previous work on "The Unknown Country." The film offers an intimate portrayal of childhood and friendship within the Oglala Lakota community in South Dakota.
Plot Summary:
The narrative follows Jasmine "Jazzy" Bearkiller Shangreaux, a young Oglala Lakota girl, from ages 6 to 12. Alongside her best friend, Syriah, Jazzy navigates the joys and challenges of growing up in their tight-knit community. Their bond faces a significant test when Syriah's family plans to move away, forcing Jazzy to confront feelings of loss and the realities of maturing.
Director's Vision:
Morrisa Maltz employs a dreamlike, documentary-style approach to authentically capture the essence of childhood from the perspective of young girls. Collaborating closely with the community, Maltz ensures a genuine representation of the Oglala Lakota experience, emphasizing the profound impact of friendship during formative years.
Themes:
Childhood Friendship: Explores the deep bonds formed during early years and the challenges they face over time.
Cultural Identity: Highlights the significance of Oglala Lakota traditions and community in shaping the protagonists' identities.
Coming-of-Age: Depicts the transition from the innocence of childhood to the complexities of adolescence.
Key Success Factors:
Authentic Storytelling: The film's narrative is rooted in real-life experiences, providing a genuine portrayal of the community.
Strong Performances: Jasmine Bearkiller Shangreaux and Syriah Fool Head Means deliver compelling performances, bringing depth to their characters.
Cinematic Approach: The blend of documentary-style filmmaking with narrative storytelling offers a unique and immersive viewing experience.
Summary:
"Jazzy" offers an intimate look into the life of a young Oglala Lakota girl as she navigates the challenges of growing up, friendship, and cultural identity. Through authentic storytelling and compelling performances, the film provides a heartfelt exploration of childhood within a specific cultural context.
Awards & Nominations: 2 wins & 5 nominations
"Jazzy" premiered at the Tribeca Festival on June 9, 2024. It has been nominated for the John Cassavetes Award and Best Editing at the 2025 Film Independent Spirit Awards.
Critical Reception:
Critics have lauded the film for its heartfelt portrayal of childhood and the authenticity of its performances. Tomris Laffly of Variety described it as "a feminine coming-of-age tale [that] reinforces Maltz as a true independent and a soulful storyteller." Kate Erbland of IndieWire praised Maltz's storytelling, noting her ability to trust the audience and show rather than tell.
Production:
The film was produced by Morrisa Maltz, Lainey Bearkiller Shangreaux, Miranda Bailey, Natalie Whalen, Elliott Whitton, John Way, Vanara Taing, and Tommy Heitkamp. It features a screenplay by Maltz, Lainey Bearkiller Shangreaux, Vanara Taing, and Andrew Hajek. The production emphasizes collaboration with the Oglala Lakota community to ensure cultural authenticity.
Distribution and Sales:
Vertical Entertainment acquired distribution rights and has scheduled the film for release on February 7, 2025.
Link IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt31371971/
About movie: https://tribecafilm.com/films/jazzy-2024
Link to watch: https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/jazzy (US)
Why You Should Watch Jazzy (2025):
Authentic Representation of Indigenous Culture:
Jazzy offers a rare, intimate glimpse into the Oglala Lakota community in South Dakota. The film authentically reflects the traditions, language, and daily life of Native American youth, highlighting voices and stories that are often underrepresented in mainstream cinema.
Deeply Personal and Emotional Storytelling:
The film explores universal themes of friendship, loss, and self-discovery through the lens of childhood. Watching Jazzy navigate the bittersweet experience of growing up makes the film emotionally resonant for audiences of all ages.
Outstanding Performances by Young Talent:
Jasmine Bearkiller Shangreaux and Syriah Fool Head Means deliver natural, heartfelt performances that feel authentic and genuine. Their chemistry on screen captures the innocence, joy, and heartbreak of childhood friendships.
A Coming-of-Age Story with a Fresh Perspective:
Unlike typical coming-of-age films, Jazzy is grounded in the real-life experiences of Indigenous girls, offering a unique perspective on what it means to grow up in a modern Native American community while staying connected to cultural roots.
Visually Poetic Cinematography:
Director Morrisa Maltz’s style blends narrative fiction with a documentary-like aesthetic, creating visually stunning scenes that capture both the beauty of the natural landscape and the intimate, everyday moments of Jazzy’s life.
Celebrated at Major Film Festivals:
Premiering at the Tribeca Festival, Jazzy has received critical acclaim for its storytelling and cultural authenticity. It’s also been nominated for the John Cassavetes Award and Best Editing at the 2025 Film Independent Spirit Awards, highlighting its artistic merit.
Female-Driven Storytelling:
The film is directed, written, and produced by women, including Indigenous voices. This adds a layer of authenticity and sensitivity to the portrayal of female friendships, identity, and community.
Themes That Resonate Across Cultures:
While rooted in Oglala Lakota culture, the film’s themes—growing pains, the fear of change, the depth of childhood friendships, and the heartbreak of separation—are universal, making it relatable no matter your background.
A Story That Trusts Its Audience:
Critics have praised Maltz for her ability to "show rather than tell," allowing the audience to experience the emotional depth of the characters without overt exposition. This approach fosters a more immersive and reflective viewing experience.
For Fans of Thoughtful, Indie Films:
If you appreciate films like The Florida Project, Minari, or Whale Rider, which focus on intimate, character-driven narratives with cultural depth, Jazzy will likely resonate with you.
In Summary:
Jazzy is more than just a coming-of-age film—it’s a celebration of friendship, culture, and identity, wrapped in a visually poetic and emotionally powerful story. Its authentic representation, heartfelt performances, and cultural significance make it a must-watch for anyone who values genuine, impactful storytelling.
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