Under the Crystal Sky

Under the Crystal Sky is a 2023 American science fiction drama film directed by a young and ambitious director who ventured into the uncharted territories of Indigenous science fiction. Set in the mid-1800s American Southwest, the film transports viewers to a period of immense turmoil, marked by the collision of indigenous cultures, the relentless American expansion, and the unfathomable mysteries of the cosmos. The story revolves around the Taos Pueblo family of K'awiil (played by a talented Navajo actor), a respected elder and spiritual leader who possesses a deep understanding of the intricacies of the universe. Alongside his loving wife, Hataalii (an equally talented actress of Laguna Pueblo descent), a skilled healer and devoted mother to their two young children, K'awiil navigates the complexities of his people's traditional ways of life amidst the looming specter of the American military. The family's idyllic existence is disrupted by an otherworldly phenomenon, a spectacular display of celestial lights and celestial sounds that K'awiil believes holds the power to heal the rifts within their community. Dubbed "the crystal sky" by the family, this extraordinary event draws a peculiar fascination from the children, K'awiil's son and daughter, who are initially terrified and enthralled by the unknown. As the Taos Pueblo people grapple with the implications of the phenomenon, their world becomes increasingly fragile. The arrival of the American military, with their relentless march across the land, forces K'awiil and his family to confront their treasured traditions head-on. The soldiers, with their brutal tactics and disinterest in the native way of life, pose a relentless threat to the very existence of the Taos Pueblo people. Under this intense scrutiny, K'awiil finds himself at a crossroads. He must reconcile his spiritual obligations to the crystal sky with the harsh realities of the encroaching military. Hataalii, too, faces a personal struggle as she navigates the demands of her role as a healer and a mother. Her children's fascination with the phenomenon serves as a poignant reminder that their world is changing irreparably. Tensions escalate as K'awiil finds himself torn between his duty to protect his people and his own growing interest in the crystal sky. This conundrum is complicated by his younger son, a curious and adventurous boy who begins to unravel the enigma of the celestial event. As the child's quest for knowledge deepens, he inadvertently draws the attention of the military, sparking a perilous confrontation. Meanwhile, a poignant subtext unfolds through the character of Hataalii. Her role as a healer takes center stage as she navigates the spiritual realm to heal the rifts within her community. Through her character, the film poignantly conveys the power of indigenous healing traditions and their importance in times of crisis. The climax of the film revolves around a tense stand-off between the Taos Pueblo people and the American military, with K'awiil's spiritual connection to the crystal sky hanging precariously in the balance. The young son, driven by his insatiable curiosity, discovers a cryptic message within the phenomenon that becomes a catalyst for a daring plan to protect his family and their way of life. With the stakes at an all-time high, the Taos Pueblo people must band together to defend their land against the encroaching military. The film culminates in a heart-stopping sequence of events as K'awiil's people rise up against their oppressors, harnessing their collective strength and a deep spiritual connection to the land to create a truly unforgettable finale. Under the Crystal Sky stands as a groundbreaking tale of resistance, resilience, and hope that shatters the silence surrounding Indigenous experiences. The film honors the rich tapestry of indigenous cultures, while shedding light on the complex issues surrounding the clash between traditional ways of life and the ravages of American expansion. With its powerful narrative, rich cultural context, and breathtaking visuals, this film is set to leave an indelible mark on the science fiction genre.