An engrossing thriller, Abducted is an excellent film that depicts many important topics that everyone should learn more about. The movie shows how Indigenous families are impacted by residential schools and intergenerational trauma from over 100 years of historical oppression. Like Kokum, Derrick and Lakota, many Indigenous families experience poverty, gangs, addictions and missing and murdered Indigenous people. The film also highlights the systemic racism in policing that has failed to protect Indigenous communities. The movie does not end in despair though and provides hope for the future. Abducted reveals the strength and resilience of Indigenous people who have been able to maintain their cultural values, beliefs and practises even through their loss. Derrick, in his determination to find his sister, was able to draw on his spiritual gift to help guide him to Lakota. The importance of family love valued by Indigenous people also resonates throughout the film and is what motivated Derrick to continue his search, even through constant barriers. We also gain an insight into what breeds a serial killer. Unfortunately, it is the lack of that family love that made Tyson become the person he did. The film gives you so much to think about and provokes conversation that is needed in today's society in order for reconciliation to occur with Indigenous people. Thank you!
