2009 AIFF Winner, Best Film
2009 AIFF Award for Best Actress — Casey Camp-Horinek

Before Oklahoma was a red state, it was known as the “Land of the Red People,” as described by the Choctaw phrase “Okla Humma.” In his sophomore film, Sterlin Harjo takes viewers on a road trip through his own personal Oklahoma, which includes an eclectic mix of humanity.

This feature focuses on Frankie (Richard Ray Whitman) and Irene (Casey Camp-Horinek) who have a difficult past, but come together for Frankie’s final, dying wish; he needs to get out of the hospital and go home to his daughter and new grandbaby to make amends. Irene had been his one, true, on-again-off-again love until they parted ways for good. To make up for the past, Irene agrees to help Frankie in his trying time.

With steady and graceful performances, this story takes viewers for a ride in the backseat of Frankie and Irene’s Indian car while the pair listen to their past and rhythmic soundtrack, which sets the beat and tone for a redemptive road journey.

Harjo wraps us in the charm and love of Oklahoma through the people and places Irene and Frankie visit along the way. In this sparingly sentimental and achingly poignant film, Harjo claims his place as one of the most truthful and honest voices working in American cinema today.

Barking Water is an expression of gratitude for the ability to have lived and loved.

Friday, Nov. 13, 7:00 p.m.
Palace of Fine Arts
$10 general / $10 students and seniors