Movie

Being Thunder

100%Critics6 reviews

8.34average critics score, out of 1020221h 25m

Documentary

After performing his whole young life as a championship eastern war dancer, following the path of his father, Sherenté Harris, at the age of 16, re-enters the traditional dance circle as someone he had been taught to hide; herself. Sherenté begins to honor the path of their mother through her style of dance. S/he is now a fancy shawl dancer. Sherenté is Two Spirit and lives as male and female asserting the right to present as both. Wearing the female fancy shawl costume, Sherenté performs in dance competitions at various tribes' pow wows. Behind their back tribal leaders manipulate scores or disqualify them outright because of a belief in traditional gender roles. In spite of being blindsided by ongoing dishonesty and deception, Sherenté continues to compete in the face of insensitive behavior from some members of the native community. Sherenté's enduring courage and self-respect are met with an outpouring of support from family members, pow wow attendees, and fellow dancers. Their family's support and love present a moving view of what Two Spirit acceptance should look like, and can create a model for others to follow.

Directed by:

Stéphanie Lamorré