Moccasin Flats

Sometimes people watch certain movies or other forms of visual entertainment and dismiss them as exaggerations of the truth. Completely false in the case of this series. I myself live in the city in which this fictional tale occurs. This show couldn't be closer to the truth.

Though I did not grow up in the "flats", I can relate to the trials and tribulations faced by these evolving characters. Wanting to make a difference, I accepted a job helping troubled youth. I attempted to help the children, of adults who could not do so for themselves, which I am sad to say is from this area in the city of Regina known as the "flats".

I have seen every episode of this program including the making of. Stacey Curtis deserves credit for directing a project with actors that have no real experience, you would never know from watching them. As well as Darrell Dennis for writing such an interesting script and enveloping characters. Speaking of which, that is the focal point that makes this series truly shine. Landon is also an exceptional actor who in this writers opinion has a future in movies or television, it would be exciting to see him in a humorous role as I think he has more depth to him than just the antagonist. Gordon Tootoosis is his usual self, by that I mean bringing warmth and honesty to his character. Another aspect of this series is the abundance of female roles. Candace Fox's character acting shines on many levels, I doubt anyone could understand unless done themselves what it feels like to play such a dark supporting role, I myself would have trouble jumping into the role of a prostitute with a drug addiction, on top of that , find out you are HIV positive, and then have the courage to turn your life around when so many others have failed. I wish I could speak of all the actors but there is just not enough space, all are great.

I caught the show late one night on APTN totally by accident - my finger slipped on the remote. 30 seconds later I was watching with my mouth open. Quite frankly this show is incredible, at least part because it's true.

Yes, it's brutal. Yes, the language is rough (I've lost count of how many times I've heard the "F" word). Yes, there's been some interesting love scenes that you wouldn't want a 10 year old to see.

So what - it's a fantastic show. It's the sort of TV that Hollywood is too scared to make. Make some time to visit Moccasin Flats. Love it or hate it, it's one powerful show.

These episodes are really accessible even if you know nothing about the back story. Also addicting, touching as they do on all aspects of Native Canadian modern life in large part through the eyes of a female police officer trying to balance her culture and her job. She's a good mix of vulnerable and competent, as are the other main characters. No black-and-white, cardboard characters here.

I've caught about four episodes at random on APTN in recent weeks and am so caught up in the lives of these characters that I'll have to find a schedule and get serious about figuring out all the relationships and histories.