Awesome Movie

Simple and well acted, it has tension enough to knot the stomach.

If the ambition is to provide two hours of instantly forgettable, popcorn-munching escapism, it succeeds.

Story: It's very simple but honestly that is fine.

I first saw a rough cut of this film a couple of years ago, and am really happy to see it released (at last) for Christmas 2005. The initial release is small (mostly in California as I understand it) but will hopefully expand.I like this film so much partly because it's funny and touching, and partly because it's sentimental without that really wrenching sentimentality towards which Christmas films are prone. But what really works best for me is the fact that the Native Americans depicted here are by-and-large just *people* who happen to be Native Americans. The Native aspect is important as setting and backdrop, and it informs the characters and how they behave, but ultimately it's the universal humanity that matters.Great characters, great story, beautiful visuals (in and around Robert Redford's Sundance ranch!) and a lot of fun.

I was very fortunate to be invited to the private screening held at the Sundance resort, previous to the Sundance Festival screenings and I was really pleasantly surprised . The entire film was well scripted, well acted, and fun for everyone. I was also at the press screening at Sundance a few days later, and the Q & A responses afterward were very positive. I am in shock that this has not found distribution yet! With all the crap that "the industry" sends out as "entertainment" I am appalled that this one sits on a shelf somewhere. It might not have "names" in the cast, but neither does Napoleon Dynamite and look how popular it has become, with over 40 million+ in revenue so far, I think someone should take a chance on distributing this charming, brilliant film. I really think the standout performances were Graham Greene's chef.....his walk thru the dining room as he commented on each diners meal was priceless! And Jonathon Joss' character Phil was hilarious.....on par with Bill Murray's character in Caddyshack! Please, if anyone knows how to / where to buy a copy please let me know via email...Thanks !

I saw this film at the Mill Valley Film festival more than one year ago. Don't know why this movie hasn't been picked up for general release, it's one of the best films I've seen. It's light hearted humor touches the soul and I am looking forward to seeing it again.

Saw this film at a screening in L.A. in early February 2002. The story is delightful, there are characters that appeal to all ages and the location is beautiful. Don't know if it has been rated, but believe it would receive a solid G rating (unless scenes of playful alcohol use would garner a PG rating) so maybe G movies are not thought to be profitable. Whatever the reason it has not been released to a wider audience, someone is missing the boat. This film would kick butt in the family film market. It's the kind of movie that families are seeking throughout the year - a funny (and sweet) story about mistaken identities and romance, with subplots woven through involving meddling but well-meaning friends. A healing between father and son, and father and daughter, and a happy ending all around is of course always desirable with a family film - and this one delivers with a rousing punch line. If it were playing somewhere I'd be sending my family members to see it as it would be on my "not to be missed" list for 2002.