057 | INDIGENOUS FUTURES | TOKALA TATUM
Young & Indigenous
Deep Dive
Why does Tokala Tatum choose horror as a genre for his film 'They're Not Here'?
Tokala Tatum chose horror for 'They're Not Here' because it reflects his personal experiences growing up on the Yakima Reservation, where he witnessed alcoholism, drugs, gang violence, and domestic abuse. The genre allows him to convey the fear and tension he felt, particularly when the yelling stopped, creating an eerie silence that was more terrifying than the noise.
What is the significance of the title 'They're Not Here' in Tokala Tatum's film?
The title 'They're Not Here' reflects the absence of safety and stability in Tokala Tatum's childhood, where the constant yelling from his father's alcoholism was a norm. The silence that followed was when the fear set in, as it was unknown what would happen next.
How does Tokala Tatum involve the community in his filmmaking process?
Tokala Tatum involves the community by reaching out to local tribes and individuals through social media and personal connections. He seeks authentic locations and people to ensure the stories he tells are grounded in the reality of Native American life.
What is the inspiration behind Tokala Tatum's film 'They're Not Here'?
The inspiration for 'They're Not Here' comes from Tokala Tatum's childhood experiences on the Yakima Reservation, where he witnessed the struggles of contemporary Native American life, including alcoholism, drugs, and domestic abuse. These experiences shaped the film's narrative and horror elements.
What is the significance of the graphic novel 'The Day I Died at Wounded Knee' in Tokala Tatum's storytelling?
The graphic novel 'The Day I Died at Wounded Knee' is significant because it reflects Tokala Tatum's Lakota heritage and his childhood fear of death. The story follows a boy's journey to the spirit world, drawing from his personal connection to the Wounded Knee massacre and his father's stories.
How has Tokala Tatum's basketball career influenced his storytelling?
Tokala Tatum's basketball career instilled in him discipline, work ethic, and the ability to handle uncomfortable situations, all of which have translated into his storytelling. The drive and tenacity he developed through basketball have carried over into his filmmaking and creative projects.
What is Tokala Tatum's upcoming project 'They're Not Here' about?
'They're Not Here' is a horror film that explores the struggles of contemporary Native American life, including alcoholism, drugs, and domestic abuse, through a supernatural lens. The film is currently in development, with a proof of concept short film already completed and available on YouTube.
What advice does Tokala Tatum have for Indigenous youth pursuing their passions?
Tokala Tatum advises Indigenous youth to focus on what interests them rather than what they are supposed to study. By studying what they love, whether it's sports, art, or any other field, they can find their unique voice and path more quickly.
What is the significance of the Hanford incident in the graphic novel Tokala Tatum is co-creating?
The Hanford incident, a nuclear activity that affected the Columbia River and Native American communities, is the central theme of the graphic novel. Tokala Tatum is co-creating this project to tell a story that highlights the impact of environmental disasters on Native peoples.
What is Tokala Tatum's first feature film 'Torn Apart' about?
'Torn Apart' is an action thriller about missing and murdered Indigenous women. Tokala Tatum directed the film, which was made on a budget of $2,000 and is now available on Prime Video and Tubi.
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