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The Cherokee Word for Water (2013)

8.7 | May 01, 2013 (US) | Drama | 01:32

The story of Wilma Mankiller, the first modern female Chief of the Cherokee Nation.

The Cherokee Word for Water is a feature-length motion picture that tells the story of the work that led Wilma Mankiller to become the first modern female Chief of the Cherokee Nation. Set in the early 1980s, The Cherokee Word for Water begins in the homes of a small town in rural Oklahoma where many houses lack running water and others are little more than shacks. The movie is told from the perspective of Wilma Mankiller and full-blood Cherokee organizer Charlie Soap who join forces to battle opposition and build a 16-mile waterline system using a community of volunteers. In the process, they inspire the townspeople to trust each other, to trust their way of thinking, and to spark a reawakening of the universal indigenous values of reciprocity and interconnectedness. This project also inspired a self-help movement in Indian Country that continues to this day. The movie is dedicated to Wilma Mankiller’s vision, compassion and incredible grace.

Featured Crew

Writer, Director
Producer, Director
Producer, Editor, Writer
Writer
Camera Operator
Executive Producer
Producer
Executive Producer
Producer

Cast

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Kimberly Guerrero
Wilma Mankiller
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Mo J.
Charlie Soap
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Steeve Reeves
Johnson Soap
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Darryl Tonemah
Chief Ross Swimmer
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Oren R. Lyons
Grandfather
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Zahn McClarnon
Deputy Jackson

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Reviews

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mkatlove
10 | Sep 11, 2013
_The Cherokee Word For Water_ is a heartwarming movie with characters that draw you in. The fact that this film is based on a true story makes the film's message of "community" even more powerful. I would recommend this film for all ages!