THE RISE OF JOE BUFFALO @SXSW

A film that hits you right in the heart is Joe Buffalo which premiered at SXSW. The short film from Syrian-Canadian filmmaker Amar Chebib is a biopic of Joe Buffalo. The skater is from Maskwacis, Alberta (Samson Cree Nation) and a direct descendant to Pitikwahanapiwiyin (Poundmaker). He grew up skateboarding after a tumultuous period in a residential school. As mentioned here on FERNTV in the film In Jesus’ Name by Susan Enberg, residential schools where genocide took place.

The school ran by Christian denominations, physically, sexually and emotionally abused the children. By force, they were to only speak English and French. Their intentions were to make them forget their own language. As well, there was a lack of medical care for these children. Tuberculosis was one of the diseases that ran rampant in these schools. Conditions improved considerably when Joe attended. Although, well-documented forms of abuse still surfaced.

Canadian History?

In an interview, we were wondering why these stories from residential schools are surfacing now, Joe Buffalo replies

“The history books that you were taught in school have been revised by the Government of Canada to cover up their criminal history.  And their dark colonial past.  You know their little web of everything and everything they wound up?  It’s slowly being dismantled and it’s coming apart.”

This gives Canadians the notion that they are no different from nations that mistreat Indigenous people. An eye-opener that brings the country of Canada down from its angelic pedestal.

After leaving residential school, Joe Buffalo discovered the world of skateboarding. He found a group of people that were able to welcome him with open arms. Only, there was a catch. He had to learn how to skate. He picked it up and became his long-life passion. The activity itself and the places where he did skate was his place of escape and happiness.

His traumatic past caught up with him that led to a dark path. Moreover, a time when he was facing his demons and with no support. Joe entered a world full of alcohol and drugs. He had to courageously confront his past in order to live his true potential.

The direction of Amar Chebib

The approach of director Amar Chebib is groundbreaking showing this difficult period of Joe Buffalo. Voiceovers that blend with Joe’s acting speaks volumes even when he’s silent. This cinematic and intimate portrait of him is compelling. Because it steers away from the usual template when it comes to documentaries. Furthermore, It gives the audience to feel empathy and space for their thoughts of Joe Buffalo and the stereotypes of skateboarding.

The point you feel for Joe Buffalo is when he begins to rise out of a dark place. He becomes sober, turns to a pro skater and a teacher to young skateboarders. You see that he is in a new level and place where he should be. You can see it in Joe’s body language. In addition, the filming of Joe Buffalo’s skating is a cinematic journey itself. You are embedded in the world of Joe Buffalo where he finds adventure in skateboarding.

Staying sober is one of Joe Buffalo’s greatest achievements. It gives hope and inspiration to those who are struggling with addiction. Coming from a dark place in his childhood, many would have thrown in the towel. Not Joe Buffalo. Where he is now is where he receives gifts of sobriety. This is done through hard work every day. Joe Buffalo knows this and he is winning in his life. Joe Buffalo represents what it truly means to be a survivor.

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