Deep Dive: Inconvenient Indian (2020)
Film Lens
Inconvenient Indian is a 2020 Canadian documentary directed by Michelle Latimer, based on Thomas King's non-fiction book. The film features King as the narrator, alongside indigenous artists like Gail Maurice and Kent Monkman. It employs a non-linear narrative style, integrating historical representations and contemporary figures in indigenous art, music, and literature. The film's visual storytelling contrasts traditional documentary formats, opting for evocative imagery instead of interviews.
The documentary juxtaposes scenes to convey its message, such as King's narration over footage of Dakota Access Pipeline protests and indigenous hunting practices. Latimer's direction emphasizes the contrast between societal reactions to cruelty towards animals versus people. The film faced controversy in December 2020 regarding Latimer's claimed indigenous identity, leading to its withdrawal from distribution. In 2025, it was determined that King does not have Indigenous ancestry.
Why Watch
- •Meet Thomas King and Gail Maurice in unique roles.
- •See modern indigenous figures like Kent Monkman reshape narratives.
- •Find out how hunting practices connect to indigenous self-reliance.
Did You Know
•In December 2020, the film was withdrawn from distribution.
•The film premiered at the 2020 Toronto International Film Festival.
•Thomas King was determined in 2025 not to have any Indigenous ancestry.
•The film won multiple accolades at Canadian festivals.
Perfect For
Indigenous rights activismCanadian film enthusiastsContemporary art and culture