Photo courtesy: Alec K. Jones
Heavy with Yellowstone connections, the forthcoming movie Buffalo Daze isn’t your grandfather’s Western. In a bold departure from oaters of old, the film is being hailed for its historical accuracy and authentic representation of Indigenous cultures and history. The film’s score, crafted by five-time Emmy-winner Jose Manuel Cancela (The Last Narc) and William Hoshal, perfectly complements its rich, country-heavy soundtrack.
Mo Brings Plenty of Yellowstone fame, who stars in the film, spoke passionately about the project, emphasizing its groundbreaking nature and the unique approach it brings to the genre. “To depict our history and culture correctly is always at the forefront of my passion, and Buffalo Daze does that,” Brings Plenty said. “Buffalo Daze is honestly a true depiction of who we are and where we come from as American Indian people. As Native actors, Buffalo Daze gives us the freedom to express ourselves, to show our triumphs, our struggles, and our resiliency.”
Among an ensemble cast, Brings Plenty is joined by fellow “Yellowstone Universe” alumni Eric Nelsen (1883), Leenah Robinson (1923), Crystle Lightning (Lawmen: Bass Reeves), and Glen Gould (Tulsa King). Screen veterans Chris Mulkey (Boardwalk Empire) and Georgina Lightning (The West Wing), Country music star Ned LeDoux, Eddie Spears (Hell on Wheels), Eugene Brave Rock (Wonder Woman), Shelby Factor (Reservation Dogs), and Mark Anderako (Hell on Wheels) all have key roles in the movie.
Told through the eyes of the Old West’s most influential artist, Charles Marion Russell, mesmerizingly played by Emmy-winner Eric Nelsen, Buffalo Daze ignites the screen with the true story of Jim Grinder, a First Nations “Indian cowboy” who was considered a hero among his Tribe but dubbed an outlaw by government authorities on both sides of the northern border.
In a remarkable life which until now has been buried in obscurity, Grinder’s story is played out against a backdrop of draconian federal policies aimed at dispossessing Tribal Nations, and state anti-miscegenation laws which, being of mixed heritage, made Grinder’s very existence a crime.
“Buffalo Daze contains the story of North America. It explores not only Tribal, but African American, Hispanic, Asian, and mixed-race cultural dynamics in the aftermath of Euro-American westward expansion,” explained Crystle Lightning, fresh off her stand-out performance opposite Dennis Quaid and David Oyelowo in Bass Reeves. “Through true life characters, we show how dramatically the world we knew changed. And how fast.”
Brady Jandreau has the titular role of Jim Grinder. Before winning the Oscar for Nomadland, Chloé Zhao based The Rider on Jandreau’s life.
“The story is so strong and the screenplay so captivating and poetic, I knew I had to be involved after reading the first page,” said Eric Nelsen. Chris Mulkey described the screenplay as “delicious.” The veteran actor, whose career-credits span MASH to On The Basis of Sex, spoke to the “depth and richness” of the writing by multi-award-winning writer/director Raen LeVell.
Adding to its singular vibe, the movie’s soundtrack is heavy on contemporary Country music. In addition to Ned LeDoux, the soundtrack features fast-rising Country stars Erin Kinsey, Brian Martin, Kaitlin Butts, and Annie Bosko. Kinsey delivers the rousing theme song, “Before We Walk Away,” written by Grammy winner Skidd Mills, Brett Manning, and LeVell.
“The real-life characters in Buffalo Daze are great. This was my first time being in a film and man, what a great experience,” recounted Ned LeDoux, who as Sheriff Billy O’Connell, is Grinder’s nemesis. “It was an honor to be involved.” LeDoux is the son of the late Country music legend, Chris LeDoux.
For all that it touches upon sensibilities that evoke the golden age of Westerns and even gives the occasional tip of the hat to the silent era, Buffalo Daze proudly defies convention, being almost a hybrid docudrama-movie, where Eric Nelsen’s Charlie Russell is both our guide and narrator. The West’s most influential artist is surely the ultimate talking head.
The success of Netflix’s Wyatt Earp and the Cowboy War has sent a clear message that the fascination with The West is alive and well, and that the appetite for accurately presented history is a demand yet to be met. Buffalo Daze will leave those hungry well-satisfied.
This visually gorgeous two hours is making waves not only for its innovative storytelling, and dedication to history, but also for its respectful and nuanced portrayal of Indigenous history. With its fresh perspective and focus on genuine human experiences, the film is set to leave a lasting impact on audiences and the Western genre.
“The impact of Buffalo Daze goes beyond the screen; it’s a reminder of our roots, our connection to the land, and the stories that shape us. As Charlie Russell, I didn’t just play a part – I was a guardian of history, a voice for the voiceless tales of the West,” reflected Eric Nelsen.
Giulia Prenna (300) of Mind the GAP Productions is the worldwide representative for Buffalo Daze.
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