Jazzy takes us on an emotional journey from the ages of 6 to 12 as we follow Jazzy, a young Oglala Lakota girl in South Dakota. Alongside her best friend, Syriah, she navigates the joys and challenges of their evolving friendship in a film that blends the dreamlike with a documentary-style realism.
A Journey Through Time
Helmed by Morrisa Maltz, Jazzy revisits the Bearkiller-Shangreaux family first introduced to us in The Unknown Country. This new film spans six years, portraying the growth and development of Jazzy (Jasmine Bearkiller Shangreaux) and her best friend, Syriah (Syriah Foohead Means), between the ages of eight and thirteen. The film captures their day-to-day experiences and intimate conversations that reveal their innermost thoughts and dreams.
The Evolution of Friendship
The bond between Jazzy and Syriah is at the heart of this film. Beautiful moments such as Jazzy celebrating her 7th birthday and candid scenes with their friends at school highlight their close-knit relationship. As they grow up, early signs of teen angst begin to emerge. This comes into sharp focus when Syriah moves to live closer to her grandparents on the Pine Ridge Reservation, creating a palpable absence felt throughout the remainder of the film.
Cinematic Techniques
Maltz’s approach is marked by a fly-on-the-wall intimacy, allowing viewers to immerse themselves fully into Jazzy’s world. Her technique lets voices usually on society’s fringe take center stage, creating a story told from the children’s perspectives. The camera work subtly integrates children into every frame without overshadowing them, making adults fade into the background for much of the film.
An Emotional Separation
Syriah’s departure profoundly impacts Jazzy, who attempts to cope with new friends but often reminisces about her best friend. There are touching scenes where Jazzy dyes her hair blue, underscoring the void Syriah left behind because what’s the point of doing anything if you can’t share it with your best friend?
A Tender Reunion
Toward the end, during a poignant funeral scene, we finally see adult figures like Jazzy’s mother and include Lainey Bearkiller Shangreaux reuniting with this family. This reunion deepens our connection to these characters and ties it back beautifully to The Unknown Country.
Conclusion
Morrisa Maltz skillfully navigates youth’s turbulent waters through a gently somber yet joyously quiet lens in Jazzy. Partnering with co-writers Vanara Taing, Andrew Hajek, and Jasmine’s mother Lainey Shangreaux, she crafts an authentic coming-of-age drama that captures both loss and hope. This spiritual companion to The Unknown Country is one that audiences won’t want to miss, culminating in a celebration of home and youth.
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