This is a surprising effort by Chris Eyre because it doesn't show his usual control. Some scenes are underwhelming and some of the acting make select characters seem more like caricatures than real living beings. A Thief of Time basically follows Chee (Adam Beach) and Leaphorn (Wes Studi) again as they go on a hunt to find a missing archaeologist. I have to say, despite a noticeable decline in craftsmanship compared to Skinwalkers, I genuinely enjoyed watching this movie. Familiarity does wonders for an audience and this was no exception. It was like hanging out with old buddies again. In fact, this film is at its strongest when it gives brief moments to the characters simply talking to one another. It makes me wish Chee and Leaphorn would stray away from the plot and just go on the road together. These two are that much fun.
With that said, the source of the movie's inspiration was more fascinating than the actual film. The premise stems from disputes concerning rights over indigenous "artifacts" between whites and natives. It is a curious notion that natives seem to be the only people valued beyond familial and sentimental boundaries. There is a very real societal and financial value to the native dead and their crafts. We hang real people up for display in museums and do not regard the practice as disrespectful but of historical significance.
I'm sure their descendants more than beg to differ.
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