Cast
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Peter Coyote
as Narrator (voice)
Ignacio Salazar
as Self - Driller
Harris Arthur
as Self - Natural Resources Consultant
Bruce Babbitt
as Self - Governor, Arizona
Esther Heaton
as Self - Kane County Commissioner; Alton, UT
Amory Lovins
as Self - Friends of the Earth
Thomas Banyacya
as Self - Hopi Spokesperson
Peter MacDonald
as Self - Navajo Tribal Chairman (1970-1982)
Peterson Zah
as Self - Elected Chairman; Navajo Tribal Council, November 1982
Scott M. Matheson
as Self - Governor, Utah
John Ferrell
as Self - Utah International
James Carrico
as Self - Admin. Asst., Kane County Commission
Caroline Lippincott
as Self - Rancher
Sylvan Johnson
as Self - Rancher
Russell E. Dickenson
as Self - Director, National Park Service
Crew
Director
- Christopher 'Toby' McLeod
Writer
- Christopher 'Toby' McLeod
Producer
- Randy Hayes
- Christopher 'Toby' McLeod
- Glenn Switkes
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
The Four Corners: A National Sacrifice Area? represents a fascinating example of Documentary cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Christopher 'Toby' McLeod brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1983, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Four Corners: A National Sacrifice Area? took approximately 19 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 58 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 109 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 2302 individual shots.
- The screenplay went through 12 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The musical score contains over 66 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1983, when this film was released:
- MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
- Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Four Corners: A National Sacrifice Area? shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Is the Crown at war with us?, which focuses more on action than character development, The Four Corners: A National Sacrifice Area? subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Golden Times – Cassandra’s Treasure and Rumble: The Indians Who Rocked the World explore similar territory, The Four Corners: A National Sacrifice Area? stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: November 15, 1983
- Runtime: 58m
