The Unknown Country (2022) Documentary Movie Review

This is the backdrop to Morrisa Maltz's captivating narrative debut, "The Unknown Country." It's not just a story; it's a lyrical and poetic odyssey that mirrors an actual journey. From the snow-covered expanses of South Dakota's Badlands to the sultry nights of the Lone Star State, the protagonist, Tana (played by Lily Gladstone), embarks on a road trip to Texas after her grandmother's passing.

Details about Tana's background come into focus later, but the essence is clear – she's mourning her grandmother and seeking a connection she's never had, a sense of community. As she drives across the vast plains of America, visiting her Oglala Lakota family and attending her cousin's wedding, Tana stays in motels, forming connections with people along the way. Her journey is marked by a mix of vigilance, a necessity for a Native woman traveling alone, and an openness to friendliness and kindness, exemplified in a carefree night spent with strangers at a Texas outdoor bar.

The geographical transition from the cold north to the warm south isn't accidental. It symbolizes Tana's process of healing and integration, bridging the gap with her family and, by extension, her entire community.

In the corporate realm, there's a concept called "touchpoints" – moments where customers interact with a company. On a human level, "touchpoints" are those spontaneous instances where a stranger becomes a friend, like the person at a convenience store counter who goes beyond the transaction to connect. In a world seemingly designed to minimize such interactions, "The Unknown Country" reminds us of the richness found in these human connections and what we might be missing out on.

Morrisa Maltz brings her documentary background into play, crafting a unique film that blends real-life stories with a fictional journey. In "The Unknown Country," Tana, played by Lily Gladstone, encounters genuine individuals whose tales unfold through voiceovers. A lively waitress, a friendly convenience store clerk, and others share snippets of their lives as Tana moves from one brief meeting to the next.

The movie, a collaborative effort among Gladstone, Maltz, editor Vanara Taing, and Lainey Bearkiller Shangreaux, weaves a story where Gladstone interacts with individuals portraying versions of themselves. Tana's visit to her cousin's family on the reservation is a poignant moment, showcasing the contrast between her urban background and the family's deep connection to reservation life. The film captures touching scenes, such as the wedding of Tana's cousin and the gift of her grandmother's possessions, prompting Tana's journey of self-discovery.

Andrew Hajek's cinematography adds a vibrant layer, playing with colors and light nuances to create a sensory experience. The visuals, from neon signs to snowy landscapes, give "The Unknown Country" a tangible quality, making it more than just a film to watch but an experience to feel.

Lily Gladstone, known for her standout role in "Certain Women," once again delivers a compelling performance. Her expressive face tells a silent story, conveying a shyer and less confident character in this film. The ending scene may not hit the mark, but Gladstone's captivating presence remains the focus, absorbing the world around her and the diverse voices that share their stories throughout the film.

In the end, "The Unknown Country" prompts us to reflect on life's precious moments, echoing poet Mary Oliver's timeless question, "Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?"