Smoke Signals Movie Review

Smoke Signals played at the Bridge theatre on my block for MONTHS. Not since Strictly Ballroom did I recall seeing such long lines, lured mostly by enthusiastic word-of-mouth praise rather than print advertising. It's a road movie about two mismatched traveling companions from the Coeur d'Alene Indian reservation. Victor Joseph (Adam Beach) isn't thrilled by the idea of traveling from Idaho to Arizona with a nerd like Thomas (Evan Adams), but the trip is necessary, Victor can't afford it, and Thomas is paying for everything as long as he can tag along. The taciturn Victor tries to instruct Thomas in a few social skills and dress tips, but the sad nature of their trip (bringing home the remains of Victor's father Arnold) gives Sherman Alexie's screenplay a resonance and density beyond the depiction of a mere personality clash. Arnold Joseph (Gary Farmer) rescued baby Thomas from a fire that killed both his parents. But Victor hasn't seen his father since Arnold deserted his family in a drunken rage 10 long years ago. Victor's feelings about Arnold are understandably complex at the outset, and the trip helps him to come to terms with his father. Even as he examines deeper relationship issues, director Chris Eyre maintains a light comedic tone throughout. Thus audiences who watch Smoke Signals always leave in a great mood, and many viewers see it several times. This sleeper's a charmer!

1998 (PG-13) 88m/C Adam Beach, Evan Adams, Irene Bedard, Gary Farmer, Tantoo Cardinal, Michelle St. John, Robert Miano, Molly Cheek, Elaine Miles, Michael Greyeyes, Chief Leonard George, John Trudell, Cody Lightning, Simon Baker; Cameos: Tom Skerritt, Cynthia Geary; D: Chris Eyre; W: Sherman Alexie; C: Brian Capener; M: E. C. Smith. Independent Spirit Awards ‘99: Debut Performance (Adams); Sundance Film Festival ‘98: Audience Award, Filmmakers Trophy; Nominations: Independent Spirit Awards ‘99: Best Supporting Actor (Farmer), First Screenplay. VHS, LV, Closed Caption