Woman Walks Ahead (2017)

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19/02/2025

Woman Walks Ahead (2017) is a historical drama film directed by Susanna White, starring Jessica Chastain, Michael Greyeyes, and Sam Rockwell. The film is inspired by the true story of Catherine Weldon, a widowed artist from Brooklyn who traveled to the Standing Rock Indian Reservation in the late 19th century to paint a portrait of the Lakota Sioux leader, Sitting Bull.

Set in the 1880s, the film follows Catherine Weldon (Jessica Chastain) as she leaves behind her comfortable life in New York and embarks on a journey to North Dakota. As an independent and progressive woman, she is determined to capture the likeness of Sitting Bull (Michael Greyeyes), the legendary leader known for his role in the Battle of the Little Bighorn. However, her arrival is met with suspicion and hostility from the U.S. government and military officials, who see her as a threat to their efforts to control the Lakota people.

Sitting Bull, initially wary of Weldon’s intentions, gradually comes to trust her as she proves herself to be an ally of the Lakota people. Weldon becomes involved in their struggle to retain their land and sovereignty, particularly as the U.S. government pushes for the signing of the Dawes Act, which would break up tribal lands and further diminish Native American autonomy. Her presence at Standing Rock draws the attention of Colonel Silas Groves (Sam Rockwell), a cynical and pragmatic military officer who warns her of the dangers she faces.

As Weldon and Sitting Bull form a deep and respectful friendship, she becomes more committed to supporting his people’s resistance against government oppression. However, tensions escalate, and the political climate grows more dangerous. The film portrays Sitting Bull as a leader torn between his people’s traditions and the pressure to submit to government demands. Ultimately, his defiance leads to tragic consequences.

Woman Walks Ahead is a visually stunning film that highlights themes of resilience, cultural respect, and social justice. It sheds light on the often-overlooked history of Native American resistance and the contributions of women like Catherine Weldon. Jessica Chastain delivers a strong performance as a determined woman challenging the status quo, while Michael Greyeyes brings depth and dignity to the role of Sitting Bull. Though the film takes some creative liberties with historical events, it offers an emotionally compelling and thought-provoking look at a pivotal moment in American history.

Woman Walks Ahead (2017)

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