This ambitious and artistic documentary directly translates Hopi language spoken by tribal elders in the late 70s and early 80s. We are shown many sights through many different filters and angles, all as the elders speak. They tell the creation story, the first people rising from the waves and discovering animals. They tell personal histories of parents and grandparents and living in the desert. Some speak of their health and the health of their families while others talk about Spanish or American conquest.
Throughout the film, we watch people riding donkeys, children playing, and elders watering their crops or preparing meals. The desert is a constant backdrop, its red soil and blue sky occasionally warped by digital filters and other artistic editing.
Itam Hakim Hopiit, as stated above, is incredibly ambitious but highly successful in what it set out to do. This vision of the Hopi people exists both as an artistic expression and cultural preservation. It is rare to hear Hopi spoken and rarer still to hear it recorded. By using direct translations, we are allowed to enter into the worldview of the Hopi, to hear their conceptualizations and poetry as it is meant to be heard.
The style of the documentary and VHS capture may feel dry and dated to many viewers, younger viewers in particular. However, those interested in Hopi culture or Native American literature and art will be very interested in viewing Itam Hakim Hopiit.
Professors of Native Literature and the History of the American West will find this documentary incredibly useful, as the speakers in this documentary touch on myth and spirituality, the history of the Spanish and American conquest, and recent history and social life. Film professors may be interested in showing Itam Hakim Hopiit for its experimental segments and visual poetry. Highly Recommended.
Where does this title belong on library shelves?
Itam Hakim Hopiit belongs on art film, cultural documentary, and Native American history shelves.
What kind of professors would be interested in this documentary?
Itam Hakim Hopiit will find most use among professors of Native American literature and art, but film professors and history professors will find this title useful as well.
What is the retail price and/or Public Performance License fee?
Institutional Life of File DSL: $600.00; DVD (Public Library): $160.00; more prices on our film page