'Milepost 398' riveting slice of rez life

honie and Andee De La Rosa have created a film that is emotionally powerful and touches on real Navajo life issues.

The film is "Milepost 398."

The film taps into a society that Navajos, young and old, know well.

The story opens at a Kayenta Chapter House country-western dance in the '70s where a woman is watching her husband dance with another woman. Later another man asks the wife to dance, provoking her husband's jealousy.

The two argue as they walk back to their vehicle, where their son Cloyd (Beau Benally), is patiently waiting to go home and playing with his toy cars on the dashboard.

The argument continues at home where it intensifies into a physical fight, a gun appears, and the scene ends with a bang.

The action flashes forward to a group drinking around a campfire in the boonies. The bang of a firecracker grabs Cloyd's attention as he stands staring off into a dark memory - his drinking buddy Marty (James Junes) tossed the firecracker at him as a prank.

From that point the movie takes you on a journey that many on the Navajo Reservation will recognize, especially anyone who has dealt with alcoholism in the home.

Cloyd is a husband and father who, because of drinking, lost his job at the local diner. He can't admit that he's got a problem, and sets out to look for another job.

He hitchhikes through several small reservation communities before finally getting work at a convenience store in Black Mesa with the help of Ray Yazzie (Ernest David Tsosie III).

Junes and Tsosie are well known as the James & Ernie comedy duo, but fans will be amazed at their work here as dramatic actors. Their performances are riveting, Junes as a beguiling but charming alcoholic and Tsosie as Cloyd's decent, down-to-earth friend.

Both comedians have a personal history with alcoholism. Junes' father was an alcoholic with an abusive past, as was Tsosie. Both have devoted their lives to living a sober life. Their portrayal of their characters in the film is drawn from those experiences.

"Milepost 398" could have ended on an upbeat note, with Cloyd's new job and promise to his wife to stay sober. But it's a more honest movie than that, and Cloyd's promise is short-lived.

The film does not stereotype Navajos and alcoholism. In fact, it tells the exact truth about the kind of lifestyles alcohol brings to the reservation.

The script for "Milepost 398" is based on the real life experiences of filmmakers Shonie and Andee de la Rosa. They drew support from the actors and crewmembers who donated their time and services.

The film was shot entirely on the Navajo Reservation and the best part for local fans is the authenticity of location, plus the outstanding performances of the local cast.

Watching the film actually leaves viewers feeling like they are part of the cast as well.

Adding to the deep sense of place is the music by contemporary Navajo musicians including Ethnic De Generation, Keddah and Coalition.

This is also the first film I've seen where, as the cast and crew credits roll, the majority of names are Navajo.

"Milepost 398" is scheduled to premiere at the Monument Valley High School auditorium on Jan. 6 at 5 p.m. in conjunction with a James & Ernie show. Admission is $15 and tickets can be purchased on the day of the show.

Information: www.sheepheadfilms.com.