Skinwalkers (2002) ***1/2

Leaphorn (Wes Studi) and Chee (Adam Beach)

Adapted from a Tony Hillerman novel, Chris Eyre takes a step out of his comfort zone and tries his hand at a (cultural) thriller. The story, although entertaining, is pretty standard fare. However, the attention to Navajo people and details keeps this one from becoming forgettable. In fact, for a genre that tends to emphasize twists and turns, the focus on characterization and culture in this movie is refreshing.

The basic plot follows a string of murders involving victims who are medicine men. There are sacred paintings done in blood to go along with them. Chee believes there could be some connection to the skinwalkers (evil shapeshifters) of Navajo stories. And thus, their pursuit for the murderer begins.

I will not go into further detail in terms of plot. There's actually quite a lot going on despite the familiarity of the story. Besides, what is more intriguing is the deeper conflict going on between tradition and modernity - more specifically, native medicine and white medicine. The movie is utterly predictable. But this ongoing (and very real) conflict is what gives the movie legs to walk on.

Finally, I commend Eyre for taking on genre and populating it with native people. It is much like the film Better Luck Tomorrow (starring Asian-American actors) in that the story is old hat but it is made new by giving the main roles - traditionally filled by white actors - to others. Of course, it is admirable to create unique stories with minority actors. But to change cultural perceptions of people, one must be willing to make changes to the established system. And tackling established genres like these opens doors for actors of color to do the same kinds of roles in more mainstream productions rather than the same Injun, straight A student, cholo, or rapper because Hollywood will realize more and more that we can do them - and more importantly, that audiences will respond positively to such change.