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Keep Talking
8.0

Keep Talking (2017)

Mar 16, 2017 1h 20m Documentary

Three Alaska Native women work to save their endangered language, Kodiak Alutiiq, and ensure the future of their culture while confronting their personal demons. With just 41 fluent Native speakers remaining, mostly Elders, some estimate their language could die out within ten years. The small community travels to a remote Island, where a language immersion experiment unfolds with the remaining fluent Elders. Young camper Sadie, an at-risk 13 year old learner and budding Alutiiq dancer, is inspired and gains strength through her work with the teachers. Yet PTSD and politics loom large as the elders, teachers, and students try to continue the difficult task of language revitalization over the next five years.

Directed by Karen Lynn Weinberg

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Karen Lynn Weinberg
Writer
  • Karen Lynn Weinberg

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Thematic Analysis

Keep Talking 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 Karen Lynn Weinberg 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 2017, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Keep Talking took approximately 5 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 80 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 117 minutes long.
  • The film contains approximately 1758 individual shots.
  • The costume department created over 243 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.

Historical Context

  • In 2017, when this film is released:
  • Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
  • Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While Keep Talking shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Jakub, which focuses more on action than character development, Keep Talking offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Microcosmos and Billy Wilder: Nobody's Perfect explore similar territory, Keep Talking stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: March 16, 2017
  • Runtime: 1h 20m

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