Frybread Face and Me – Film Review
Published November 27, 2023
Movie Details
Director Billy Luther‘s ambitious, coming-of-age tale, Frybread Face and Me, which features strong performances and gorgeous location work, engages the audience with a balanced amalgamation of entertainment and education.
Set against the spectacular landscapes of an Arizonian Navajo reservation, the narrative commences with the unexpected relocation of Benny (Keir Tallman), a city kid from San Diego, who must now endure an extended stay with his Native American relatives during the summer. Soon, he meets his cousin, dubbed Frybread Face (Charley Hogan), a seasoned resident of the reservation. What ensues is a touching exploration of cultural identity, societal dichotomies, and intricate family ties.
Despite the arduous subject matter, Luther masterfully threads humor throughout the narrative without overshadowing the poignant subplots. The authenticity in representation reflects Luther’s grasp on Navajo traditions, perfectly fused with the beautiful location work on the Navajo reservation. This picturesque backdrop allows the director to utilize his visually stunning storytelling techniques, constructing an ambience that’s reflective of Benny’s feelings of cultural estrangement and later, assimilation.
The narrative boasts of moments that organically tie its themes together, all thanks to the clever script and Luther’s directional precision. Where the movie lacks in subverting genre tropes, it compensates with a focus on societal issues and prejudices native communities face, making this coming-of-age tale culturally sensitive and refreshingly insightful.
Keir Tallman, who leads as Benny, exhibits a charming display of evolving emotions throughout his character’s journey. His discomfort on encountering an unfamiliar environment slowly dissipates to an appreciative acceptance, portrayed commendably through his expressive eyes and minimal dialogue.
On the other hand, Charley Hogan delivers a grounded performance as Frybread Face. Despite the demeaning nickname, he imbues his character with undeniable charisma and resilience that make him instantly endearing. He serves as a cultural beacon for Benny and as the bridge for audience’s better understanding of the Native American culture.
Sarah H. Natani is magnetic in her role as the ever-loving and understanding grandmother, exhibiting an astute depiction of motherhood in indigenous communities. Her scenes with Benny exhibit a unique grandmother-grandson bond that warms hearts and embodies the traditional core of Native American families. Martin Sensmeier, as the seemingly reckless but well-meaning Marvin, adds another dimension to this narrative.
Taika Waititi’s presence as an executive producer adds gravitas to this indie drama. The touch of his trademark wry humor and taste for emotional complexity seep through in the storytelling, hinting at his gentle guidance and faith in Luther’s vision.
The score composed for the movie perfectly aligns with the scenes, subtly enhancing the story’s impact. However, it’s the on-location cinematography that steals the show, immersing viewers into the sweeping landscapes, rustic lives, and unassuming beauty of Navajo land.
Despite its positive aspects, the movie isn’t without its flaws. It stumbles slightly in pacing and tends to indulge too much in expository dialogue, inhibiting a natural unfolding of the story. Additionally, while the ending offers closure, it fails to resonate with the intensity it had initially promised.
Nevertheless, Frybread Face and Me is a heartfelt, honest portrayal of a lesser-known culture and the experience of finding oneself amidst unknown surroundings. Despite minor issues, the story shines with strong performances, brilliant storytelling, and vivid imagery that demands a viewing.