High Steel
1965
13 min
Coming soon
This short documentary offers a dizzying view of the Mohawk of Kahnawake who work in Manhattan erecting the steel frames of skyscrapers. Famed for their skill in working with steel, the Mohawks demonstrate their nimble abilities in the sky. As a counterbalance, the viewer is also allowed a peek at their quieter community life on the Kahnawake Reserve, in Quebec.
Details
This short documentary offers a dizzying view of the Mohawk of Kahnawake who work in Manhattan erecting the steel frames of skyscrapers. Famed for their skill in working with steel, the Mohawks demonstrate their nimble abilities in the sky. As a counterbalance, the viewer is also allowed a peek at their quieter community life on the Kahnawake Reserve, in Quebec.
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directorDon Owen
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scriptDon Owen
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editingDon Owen
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producerJulian Biggs
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cameraJohn Spotton
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soundRon AlexanderRoger Lamoureux
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re-recordingRon AlexanderRoger Lamoureux
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sound editingJohn Knight
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narratorDon Francks
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musicBruce Mackay
Education
Ages 13 to 17
History and Citizenship Education - First Occupants (to 1500)
Indigenous Studies - Identity/Society
Indigenous Studies - Issues and Contemporary Challenges
Media Education - Documentary Film
Ask media literacy students to examine the film's representation of First Nations people: their "special knack" with high jobs; their pride in steel work; their ability to collaborate; the notion of self-sacrifice in the face of economic necessity. Film students can study and practise use of sound, camera work, and unique narration (discuss the non-Native narrator). Ask Aboriginal Studies students to consider the role of high jobs in shaping First Nations identity.
