Educational Media Reviews Online

Stéphanie Lamorré’s film Being Thunder is an intimate approach to Sherenté Harris’s everyday experiences as a Two-Spirit teenager from the Narragansett Tribal Nation in Rhode Island. Two-Spirit is the term used by Native Americans to describe or refer to individuals who identify themselves as both masculine and feminine or as in-between genders. Even though many Native American tribes accept Two-Spirit souls, the film shows that gender non-conforming people face discrimination in indigenous communities.

Director Lamorré follows Sherenté on her journey along with her family. One of her passions is to perform in the annual powwow dances where competitions occur. These dances are traditionally performed by women, however, as a Two-Sprit person, Sherenté faces discrimination by the judges, they refuse to score her. This causes her frustration, disappointment, and emotional pain. Her family and friends are always there to support her.

A very interesting historic point is mentioned by Sherenté’s mother when she explains that Eastern indigenous tribes were on the front lines of colonization. As a result, they were the first to experience the destruction and violence of settler colonialism and consequently were cut off from their history and traditions in comparison with Native American from the Midwest.

The documentary is not done in the form of interviews. The camera follows Sherenté during family conversations, rituals, birthdays, weddings as well as other interactions with her identity ever-present during these family events. The film not only shows Sherenté’s frustration about the discrimination but also shows her talents as a young activist where in several scenes she speaks passionately at various demonstrations. There are details missing in the documentary such as the names of her siblings, what her father does for a living etc.

The film is gently and sensitively done and there are several beautiful and colorful shots of the dances. It feels long and has several scenes that don’t really enrich the story. It could be shortened to make it more appealing for academic use. Usually, professors are looking for films that they can fit into their tight class schedules. Many documentaries are offered in long or short versions. This could be a good option for this film.

There are not many videos on Two-Spirit people and with the work that colleges and universities are doing to support DEI and social justice this fit perfectly.

Awards:
Durango Film: An Independent Film Festival: Jury Aard - Honorable Mention Documentary Feature

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