
Memed My Hawk
In 1920s Turkey, a young peasant is smitten with a beautiful young girl, who has been promised in marriage to the fat, dullard cousin of the province's powerful and corrupt governor. When an assassination attempt is made against the official, the young man flees his village and joins up with a group of outlaws fighting against the wealthy and powerful landowners who control the lives of the locals and make life miserable for them. The outlaws' successes prompt the governor to call in the Turkish army to capture or kill them.
Insights
Plot Summary
Set against the backdrop of the brutal Northern Cheyenne expulsion in 1878, the film follows the story of a Cheyenne warrior torn between his people's traditions and the encroaching influence of the white man. He navigates a path of violence and survival, seeking to protect his family and heritage in a changing world. The narrative explores themes of cultural conflict, honor, and the devastating consequences of broken treaties.
Critical Reception
Michael Cimino's 'Memed My Hawk' is a sprawling and controversial epic that garnered mixed to negative reviews upon its release. While some critics acknowledged its ambitious scale and visually striking cinematography, many found its narrative bloated and its depiction of Native American culture problematic. The film was a significant box office disappointment and is often cited as a prime example of directorial excess.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its visual grandeur and ambition.
- Criticized for its excessive length and convoluted plot.
- Deemed problematic in its portrayal of Native American characters and historical events.
Google audience: Google users appear to be divided on 'Memed My Hawk.' While some appreciate the film's epic scope and rugged performances, a significant portion of viewers found it overly long, difficult to follow, and ultimately unsatisfying.
Awards & Accolades
Nominated for a Razzie Award for Worst Director (Michael Cimino).
Fun Fact
The film was originally intended to be released in 1983 but was delayed due to extensive reshoots and editing issues, contributing to its reputation as a troubled production.
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