Nicole Petranchuk
Director Chris Eyre visits ONS
Wadeñ nwa aweñha
November 8, 2011
Onondaga Nation- Film director Chris Eyre stopped by ONS o his way to a presentation at Syracuse University to talk to the children. Chris is an Arapaho and Cheyenne native who had become an accomplished film director. Chris has directed films such as Skins, Edge of America, Skinwalkers and his famous “Hey Victor” film Smoke Signals.
Chris explained to the children the birth of Smoke Signals. He had read a short story he enjoyed by Sherman Alexie. It was about two boys going to Arizona to return the remains of their father. This inspired him to use the story in a film. As he began writing his screen play, the story became longer as he re-told the story.
“I read this s
tory that was only 13 pages long.” Chris explains. “When I was finished writing the screenplay, it grew to over 90 pages!”
tory that was only 13 pages long.” Chris explains. “When I was finished writing the screenplay, it grew to over 90 pages!”A student asked Chris what he thought what was his funniest part of the film Smoke Signals, he replied, “It is the scenes with Thomas and his Grandma. It is like watching an Indian Adams Family.”
With his award winning films and international success background, Director Chris Eyre shared the beginnings of his outstanding career.
“My very first film was shot right here at Onondaga. I remember asking the Clan Mothers and the Chiefs for permission to shoot my film. After 4 days of filming with my two local actors Pete Benedict and David Lyons, my film was complete.”
Chris added, “I remember the people being upset with us for holding up traffic while we were filming. I just thought, 'the Clan M
others got my back so I’m OK.'”
others got my back so I’m OK.'”That short movie, Tenacity, ended up winning Best Short Film at NYU.
Chris Eyre is also a graduate of the University of Arizona. He spoke of the importance of staying in school and listening to your teachers. Before he left he gave some noteworthy advice;
“Find something that you love to do. If you do, it will not feel like work and you will look forward to it everyday. That is why I still love making movies.”
We are looking forward to seeing more of Chris Eyre's ideas on film.
