End of the Spear Review
Posted by Chad Webb on 01.23.2006
The spear lands right in the heart as the first worthwhile film of the year.
Louie Leonardo: Mincayani
Chad Allen: Nate Saint/Steve Saint
Jack Guzman: Kimo
Christina Souza: Dayumae
Chase Ellison: Young Steve Saint
Sean McGowan: Jim Elliot
Cara Stoner: Marj Saint
Directed by Jim Hanon
Release Date: January 20, 2006
Running Time: 1 hour and 53 minutes
Rated PG-13 for intense sequences of violence
Reviewed by Chad Webb
After dealing with extreme budgetary constraints and limited areas of location to film, Director Jim Hanon has left a enduring impression in his feature film debut End of the Spear. It is a poignant, haunting, and understated picture that has underlying themes of Christianity that are not preached, but suggested through an articulate storyline that originated from an incredible true story. This adventurous tearjerker is an independent phenomenon of a film that is close to flawless. While possessing traits that might not appeal to all moviegoers, the cast and crew have instilled a significant message that is thought provoking if nothing else.
End of the Spear follows the life of Mincayani (Louie Leonardo), a Waodani tribesman from the jungles of Ecuador. In 1956, five young missionaries travel to the jungle in an attempt to cure the Waodani tribe of the cycle of violence that they are embroiled in. Steve Saint (Chad Allen) is the son of one of the slain missionaries, and he narrates throughout the film. From there, the families of those missionaries who were killed pick up where the men left off, and live among the killers of their loved ones. The unforgettable series of events unfold by exploring the causes of violence, and the meaning of forgiveness.
Chad Allen is generally well known for his roles on television, in such shows like Our House, My Two Dads, and Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman, but he has dabbed in film here and there. In End of the Spear he takes on a dual role as Steve and Nate Saint, and the alterations between the appearance of father and son are appropriate and authentic. His performance will not be recognized as a contender by the end of 2006, but his conveyance of pain, empathy, and compassion is exceedingly earnest.
Ferocity and aggression surround the character of Mincayani, portrayed by Louie Leonardo, and the expression that entrenches his face produces a feeling of sadness amongst the audience. Leonardo is the source of scenes that are tender and disturbing, regardless of the subtitles. He functions as a leader in the Waodani tribe, and hostility has consumed his whole life from the horrifying slaughters during his upbringing to the never-ending battling with rival tribe led by Moipa as an adult. The new ay of life that the missionaries introduce causes confusion for Mincayani, which leaks out to the other members of the tribe.
The pathway that led to the making of this film was not an easy one. Jim Hanon's very first project was entitled Beyond the Gates of Splendor, which was a documentary following the Waodani tribe. Initially, the Waodani did not grant permission to the filmmakers. They tried to explain what the documentary would finally illustrate, but the tribe was not eager for their history to be divulged. Steve Saint then informed the tribe of the tragic Columbine incident, which resulted in the killing of innocent civilians for no reason. The effect this piece of news had on the Waodani was instantaneous because they all realized that this hatred was very similar to the past events of the Waodani. The final agreement to the film was accepted because the decided if their story can help others, the film was a worthy idea.
The award winning Beyond the Gates of Splendor is a different account of this story, and it not necessarily for an audience that enjoyed End of the Spear. Many critics have dismissed the film as mediocre or less because of the subtle messages of Christianity. Jim Hanon has brilliantly sculpted this film so that it fascinates regular viewers with its intimate ambiance. Most critics that have reviewed the film have made exaggerated claims that the film preaches. If this were a "preachy" film, I would hate to see a film that is nothing but religious lectures. Hanon does not use this as a platform for sermonizing the focus of religion transforming culture, but he achieves a coherent balance throughout. Other arguments state the substance of the film is dull, but I would recommend that one check their pulse if that were their opinion.
I am not a very religious person by nature, and my personal beliefs differ somewhat from the actions of the characters, but the fim remains impressively moving and valuable. Subtitles are not universally accepted to moviegoers, but Hanon presents clear and sufficiently paced text. Certain aspects of the tribe's culture and customs are not explicated adequately, and that is the prime hindrance.
The aerial shots of the jungle and water are vivid with stunning realism. The filming actually took place in Panama, but the crew went to great lengths to depict the authenticity of Ecuador, which is where the actual events took place. Complimenting this sincerity and audacious tale is an exceptional score by Ron Owen. The transition the tribe makes from abhorrence and conflict to absolution and reconciliation is a pungent and compelling struggle, which proves that benevolence still exists today. Fifty years after the killings in Ecuador, the Waodani's history yields a captivating and triumphant attainment for a novice director.
The 411: This film will probably cause some debating and discussion, but that is a good thing. The theme of Christianity is very minute, and never meant a whole lot to me until I read more about the film, so that should prove how preachy it is. On a side note, I suggest staying for the ending credits that include some candid moments with some of the real people. End of the Spear is destined to be an underrated gem, and although it will not be a box office success, it is well worth a look just to experience a film that is different than the usual recurring material in theaters that are over hyped and unmemorable.
