Added to Paramount+ on Wednesday, Jan 17, 2024 The Lesser Blessed is a captivating story that follows Larry Sole, a 16-year-old Tlicho Indian living in a remote northern Canadian town. The film deeply engages with Larry’s struggle to cope with his past traumas, including an abusive father and a near-fatal accident. His life takes a dramatic turn with the arrival of Johnny Beck, a young Métis from Hay River, sparking new conflicts and revelations. The story is a profound exploration of teenage alienation, the search for identity, and the cultural tensions experienced by Indigenous youth.
Length: 86 minutes
Genre: Drama
This Title is: A deep exploration of teenage life and indigenous identity
The Lesser Blessed is New on Paramount+ in Canada!
Trailer
Cast
- Joel Evans as Larry Sole
- Benjamin Bratt as Jed
- Kiowa Gordon as Johnny Beck
Parental Guidance
Maturity Rating: R (Restricted)
Content warnings include scenes of violence, mature themes, and strong language, making it suitable for older audiences.
Trivia
- The film is based on the novel of the same name by Richard Van Camp.
- Despite its setting in the Northwest Territories, the movie was actually filmed in Sudbury, Ontario.
- Kiowa Gordon won the Best Supporting Actor award at the American Indian Film Festival for his role in the film.
Our Review
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The Lesser Blessed offers a unique and insightful glimpse into the life of indigenous teenagers grappling with identity and belonging in a modern context. The film’s standout feature is its authentic portrayal of indigenous culture and the complexities of teenage life. The performances, particularly from the lead actors, are deeply compelling, although the pacing of the story might feel slow at times. The visuals effectively capture the stark and beautiful landscapes of northern Canada, adding a significant layer to the narrative’s tone. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking film that resonates with anyone interested in culturally rich and emotionally nuanced stories.
Critic Scores
Critic Scores aggregate ratings from IMDb, Rotten Tomatoes, and Metacritic. (Click on any score for a detailed review.)
