Original subtitles

[soft orchestral music]

*

[owl hooting]

[birds calling] [waves crashing]

[thunder rumbling]

[soft orchestral music]

[distant bell clanging]

[train whistle blowing]

[train chugging]

[soft orchestral music]

*

[hooves clomping] [horse whinnies]

[soft music continues]

*

*

*

[dogs barking]

[dishes clinking]

[soft rhythmic vocalization]

[cash register dings] [people chattering]

[coins clattering]

[soft rhythmic vocalization]

*

[people chattering] [dishes clinking]

[soft rhythmic vocalization]

[dishes clinking] [people chatting]

Make sure you get all the rice off of them this time.

At least I don't break any.

[Yvette gasps]

Carl! Gross!

[Carl giggling]

[soft rhythmic vocalization]

[casual country music]

[cash register dings]

Wow, what a meal!

I haven't had such great tasting chicken balls,

and the rice was perfect.

Glad you enjoyed your meal.

I had the hot hamburger.

Delicious.

Was that rosemary I tasted?

Maybe.

A chef never reveals their secrets.

Oh Katherine.

Customer: Keep the change.

We'll be back.

Thank you.

[door closing]

[Charlie sighs]

Busy night.

The kids were really busy.

[Katherine coughing]

We should go see your father.

He knows traditional medicine.

I've seen it work.

[Katherine coughing]

If we were in China I know I could find medicine for you.

[tense music]

*

Hmm. It's good stuff.

[Katherine coughing]

Katherine, I don't like to see you suffer like this.

When I become a doctor I'll look after you.

You look after me now, honey.

Drunk Man: Hey!

[crashing]

Drunk Man: Get out of my way you bum Indian!

[man grunting]

[tense music] [dogs barking]

[blows landing] [man grunting]

Charlie: Hey!

Get out of here!

You best be careful, ya stinking chink!

[man yelping]

Drunk Man: You don't belong here!

[man groaning]

[tense music]

[man panting]

I gotta get one of those.

Thanks Charlie.

[distant sirens wailing]

Don't let anyone know you're an Indian.

Do you understand me?

People will not be nice to you.

They can take you away from us.

[door closing] [siren dying down]

Time to turn out lights and go home.

[tense music]

[man grunting] [dogs barking]

[man grunts]

[sirens wailing]

[soft piano music]

*

I'm going to be a doctor when I grow up.

Mom is sick.

The doctor is seeing her now.

[footsteps approaching]

[muffled speaking]

Dr. Thompson: I don't know what's causing this.

Shouldn't he know what's wrong with her?

Isn't he the doctor?

He'll fix her.

He has to.

Dr. Thompson: We don't know why you have those rashes

so Mr. Wong, you should get her to Regina

for further tests.

[tense music]

[indistinct whispering] [heartbeat pounding]

[echoing] When I become a doctor,

I'll look after you.

[Katherine panting]

Katherine: [echoing] You look after me now, honey.

[heartbeat recedes]

[soft country music]

Yvette: Carl!

Carl?

Carl! Mom wants you to come in!

[soft country music]

*

Katherine: I don't have status anymore.

We can't afford it.

[Katherine coughs]

[Katherine laughing]

Come here, my girl.

Mm.

[Katherine sighs]

Okay.

Let's go see my dad.

We're going to the reserve?

Yes.

And bring a book.

It's a long drive.

Got everything?

["It Must Be Santa Claus (Do You See What I See)" by Warscout]

[soft singing and drumming]

Okay, so if you start feeling carsick-

* Do you see what I see

* Red suit, black boots

* White hair and glasses too

* Moshum I thought you were Santa Claus *

[soft rhythmic vocalization]

[Katherine coughing]

[soft rhythmic vocalization]

Yvette, what book are you reading?

China.

Can we go there?

I want to see Dad's home and walk the Great Wall.

We can barely afford to go to Regina.

That's why we have books.

You can see everything in a book.

[soft rhythmic vocalization]

[soft piano music] [muffled whispering]

*

[muffled child crying]

[soft whispering]

[soft piano music continues]

Charlie: Isn't the turn off near the school?

Katherine: Yes, we're close.

Doris.

[distant gunshot]

Hi.

You see, I'll read to you.

Dad, what are they saying?

Don't get out of the car.

Why not?

Don't.

[Katherine coughing]

Katherine: I'm okay.

Charlie: Doris.

Doris: Hi, Charlie.

The kids are in the car.

[distant gunshot]

Doris: Babies!

Come on out, come on out.

Don't be scared.

[gasps] Wow!

Look at you guys!

Yvette, you are so pretty.

And Carl too, just handsome! [laughing]

Don't you remember me?

[distant gunshot]

I'm your Auntie Doris.

Auntie who?

I kind of remember you.

I'm your mom's sister.

Okay, go hug your Kokum Mary!

[goose honking]

Peter: Sister.

You're not an Indian anymore,

since you're married to a white man.

What are you doing here?

Katherine: Where's Dad?

[distant gunshot]

He's got business to attend to.

Indian business.

[soft tense music]

Who are these two little bear cubs?

Katherine: Come on, let's go.

Okay, let's go.

Hey.

Hey, what's the matter with you?

If you're such an Indian

why aren't you attending to Indian business?

Dad'll explain everything.

[Katherine coughing]

[distant gunshot]

[Katherine coughing]

So?

That stove looks real hot.

I hope everyone likes pancakes.

I know they call them flapjacks here.

[gentle music]

Ew!

How do you do that?

What are they?

Muskrats.

From the creek over there.

Muskrat?

Doris: You mean you've never had muskrat before?

[laughs] What kind of Indians are you guys?

They've never had to eat muskrat.

Peter: Chicken in the pot every night, eh?

[soft music continues]

[hooves clomping] [horses snorting]

[horse whinnies]

[soft music continues]

*

Don't you remember your moshum?

Dad, it's been almost nine years.

She was just a baby.

Thought you knew what you were doing

when you married off.

Give your moshum a hug.

[Amos laughing]

Ah.

You're a strong man.

I can tell.

[both laughing]

Oh, you've both gotten so big.

[distant gunshot]

Hey, Charlie,

good to see you.

You're skinnier than when you left.

Are you sick?

We thought she should see you.

I've been working as much as I can.

Have no energy.

Pain all over.

Rashes.

Hard to walk sometimes.

I'll fix something up for you right away.

How long you around?

The weekend maybe.

Amos: Good to hear.

You'll be good as new when I'm done with you.

You can help us build a new house.

Dad, what happened to the old house?

Did the principal really burn it down?

I was teaching the boys some of our old songs.

The principal felt it was interfering

with their education.

Boys need their education.

He didn't want them remembering their Indian ways.

Were you drinking?

No more than usual.

Charlie, my friend,

how's the cafe?

Everything is okay, Amos.

[distant gunshot]

People are responding well to my style of cooking.

But it always surprises me what they think

is Chinese food.

[all laughing] [Katherine coughing]

Amos: Good to hear.

We haven't been to Fort Qu'appelle for too long.

No one here has a car.

[soft mysterious music]

*

Katherine: Yvette!

You stay with your moshum.

Don't wander off in the bush now.

[distant gunshot]

[soft rhythmic vocalization]

*

Can you really make her better?

I can try.

I've got everything I need.

But I want to be a doctor.

Oh.

You want to be a healer?

You're going to be a great one.

[Amos chuckles]

It's in your blood.

[distant gunshot]

Now we have to give thanks.

We are always grateful

for all that we are given.

How do you do that?

We just say...

[in Cree] Kininaaskoomitin Keechi'Manitou.

What does that mean?

It means, "Thank you Creator"

in our language.

[in Cree] Kininaaskoomitin Keechi'Manitou.

[Amos laughing]

[soft mystical music]

Yvette: I saw kids playing when we got to the reserve.

Who are they?

Reminders.

Ones we lost.

Here you go.

Oh, I'm not hungry.

Doris: Come on. Try it.

It's delicious.

Kokum Mary especially loves the brains.

We leave that for her.

She eats the brains?

[Doris giggling]

These are real good pancakes.

Hiy hiy. Mmm!

I would come to Fort Qu'appelle just for these.

[Amos laughing]

Here.

Tell me what your homeland was like.

Is it different than the prairies?

[soft Chinese music]

It is beautiful.

But it can also be a hard place to live.

It is a place of great beauty and great poverty.

I'm grateful for my family here.

We all live under the same sky.

You're a good dishwasher, my girl.

I wash dishes at the restaurant all the time.

I keep telling her it's more important to study

than wash dishes.

She likes it.

I want to be a doctor

and doctors have to wash their instruments all the time

or someone might get sick.

Like your moshum.

Is he a doctor?

He told me he was a healer.

He's a medicine man.

He heals people.

He knows what to give them

so that they get better.

[engine rumbling]

[horn honks]

[horn honks]

[tense music]

Dry your hands.

Amos Horseknife!

Oh good, you brought help.

It's that principal at that school...

What's he talking about?

The superintendent of the reserve.

Everyone here is lonely for their kids.

They were taken.

You're lucky you have yours in town with you.

Peter: They burn down our houses.

They take our children.

Our women are left crying.

We have to do something.

Amos: Men who wear suits and ties have the power now.

What can we do?

You could run for Chief in the next election.

Chief?

What good would that do?

They don't listen to Indians, not even Chiefs.

Peter: We have to do something.

We gotta protect ourselves!

Our land!

Our rights!

Our families!

[tense music]

Peter: They make it so hard.

Travis, pour me a deep one.

Travis: Wait till they get a taste of their own medicine!

Peter: The more we have, the stronger we'll be!

Travis: Fuck yes!

Now we're fucking talking!

[dark tense music]

Carl,

go get your father and go to the car.

Travis: Amos, you deserve better than this!

Why are those men acting like that?

Now.

Let's go to their houses!

[man whooping]

Man: Burn down a church! - Yeah!

Yeah!

Dad! - Yeah!

Mom wants you to get in the car!

Man: Yeah!

Let's go.

[car doors slamming]

[car doors slam]

[men whooping] [horns honking]

You're not leaving yet are you?

Sorry Amos.

Time for us to go.

You just got here!

Take care.

Really enjoyed our visit.

I really did.

Come and visit us.

[soft tense music]

Dad, Mom is getting sick again.

[Katherine coughing]

But you couldn't resist all this crap

these men are feeding you and,

and the whisky when they offered it.

Don't you remember how you get?

I do.

You can't make medicine when you're drunk.

You taught me that.

It's sacred.

You're no good when you get like this!

And even when I needed your medicine, like now,

you still couldn't resist a drink.

[Katherine coughing]

And you'll be drunk for at least a week.

Or a month!

And I'm sure you were drunk

when you were teaching those boys songs.

Drinking songs!

[Katherine coughing]

I'm sorry Katherine.

Come back.

I'll make it right. I'll fix you.

I'm never coming back here!

Why do you think I left in the first place?

There's nothing here!

Don't say that.

We miss you.

I-I married a good man.

He looks after me. Us.

I hope life is easier for you.

If I never tell anyone we're Indian,

it's easier.

My children need all the help they can get.

Yvette or Carl are never stepping foot

on this reserve again.

And I don't want you coming around us ever either, okay?

You hear me?

[tense music]

Yvette is gonna be a doctor.

A real doctor.

And they don't need drunken fools around them.

[distant gunshot]

You stay away from us!

[Katherine coughing]

[Katherine sobbing]

[engine rumbling]

Turn around, Yvette.

Never look at them again.

Why?

They're not who they're supposed to be.

They've given up.

Yvette, Carl, never give up!

Life's too short.

Okay Mom.

[sobbing and coughing]

[Katherine sobbing]

[echoing in Cree] Kininaaskoomitin Keechi'Manitou.

[echoing in Cree] Kininaaskoomitin Keechi'Manitou.

When I become a doctor I'll look after you.

You look after me now, honey.

[voices whispering] [rhythmic drumming]

[school bell rings]

[people chattering]

Aaaaaah soooo.

Aaaaaah soooo?

What does that mean?

[boy snorting]

[soft piano music]

*

Yvette.

Why aren't you playing outside?

I like reading more.

Mr. Adams: You understand this?

I'm on the mummification part.

Do you wanna hear?

Sure.

"The Ancient Egyptians believed in an afterlife

"when somebody died.

"First you have to insert a hook through a hole in your nose

"and pull out part of the brain."

Indeed.

Isn't this the slow learners class?

I guess so.

Mr. Adams: What grade are you in?

Five.

And how old are you?

I'll be 10 in two weeks.

When you go home for lunch,

ask your parents if they can meet with me after school.

Will you do that?

It's just that, uh, I'm new here,

and I'd like to talk to them about you and your brother.

Are we in trouble?

No, no, no. [laughs] Not at all.

I, uh, I just want to meet them.

Okay?

[soft piano music]

[whispers] What are we doing here?

[whispers] I don't know.

Neither do I. I have no idea.

Mr. Adams: Hello.

Thank you for waiting, Mr. and Mrs. Wong.

I'm new here, uh,

I'm just getting to know the students and their families.

Um, can you tell me why Yvette is in the slow learners class?

And-and why was Carl held back by a year?

They've got the highest scores in the school.

They definitely aren't slow.

We didn't put them there.

It just doesn't make any sense.

Oh! I'm sorry, you're busy.

I was told you wanted to see me?

Come in, Miss Scott.

Ah, you know the Wongs, correct?

Uh, no, we actually haven't met properly.

Carl is in my Grade Six class.

Mr. and Mrs. Wong, uh, Miss Scott is our Grade Six

and Grade Seven teacher.

Miss Scott, I'm moving Yvette into your class

and I'm moving Carl up into Grade Seven.

Excuse me?

My class?

But they're...

They're...

Supposed to be in grade six and grade seven, maybe?

Miss Scott, can you tell me if any of your grade six students

have read a book like this?

You have to understand these children, Mr. Adams.

It's hard enough to get them to read a book

that's on the curriculum.

Mr. Adams: Yvette read this on her own.

She comprehends everything.

And she's way too advanced for grade five.

Carl exhibits the same potential.

These are very bright kids.

Miss Scott: Well, that's fine, Mr. Adams.

But do you really have to move them into my class?

They're good kids.

Yvette and Carl are good Canadians.

[whispers] Can we be anything else?

Mr. Adams: Miss Scott,

you have to understand,

you're the only grade six and grade seven teacher

that we have.

And it's unfair to keep such capable students

in such an unchallenging environment.

Mr. Adams, moving them could really disrupt the class.

I know you're new here but-

That is all, Miss Scott.

I would like to move the children up.

That is if it's okay with Mr. and Mrs. Wong.

What do you think kids?

Yes.

Yeah, sure.

Mr. Adams: Then it's settled.

Mr. and Mrs. Wong, you should be very proud.

You have two exceptional children.

[Katherine chuckling]

[Miss Scott huffs]

[bright piano music]

*

What the heck is the Chinaman doing here?

She's sitting in the dummy desk!

Sit down and be quiet!

[mocking] Ah, okay! Okay!

[kids laughing] [slams fist]

I said quiet!

[Miss Scott sighs]

Now you've all noticed we have a new student with us.

She's no stranger to the school.

Yvette, would you please come to the front

and introduce yourself properly.

Chop, chop, Miss Wong!

My name is Yvette Wong.

I'm going to be 10.

I'm now in grade six.

My brother Carl is in this class,

but he's not feeling very well.

I want to be a doctor when I grow up.

[kids snickering]

Silly Yvette meant she wants to be a nurse.

Women can be nurses.

They don't become doctors.

Yvette: But I want to be a doctor, Miss Scott.

I want to heal people.

That's enough.

My grandfather is a medicine man-

You can sit.

Now, the Spring Pageant will be next month

and the grade six and seven class

will be doing a play.

It's called, Laura Secord, the Heroine of 1812.

Tommy, you'll be the farmer.

Charlotte, you'll be the farmer's wife.

And Yvette.

Oh Yvette.

Laura Secord?

You're going to be the Indian Chief.

Indian Chief?

It's just a play.

You can pretend.

You almost look Indian.

[kids snickering]

If someone didn't know it,

they might think you were some kind of Indian.

[whispers] I am but I'm not supposed to tell anyone.

Miss Scott: Pardon me, Yvette?

Did you say something?

No. Just... thanks Miss Scott.

Miss Scott: Okay.

Nancy, nurse number one.

And Daniel, you'll be a soldier.

Yvette: Mom?

Dad?

Carl?

Mom?

Dad?

Mommy?

Daddy?

Where is everybody?

[Yvette gasps]

[in unison] Happy birthday!

A bike?

You got me a bike?

Now I can race Carl!

Well, I mean it's just a girl's bike.

[traditional Chinese music]

*

Can I go now? Please?

I'll finish the cake later.

Charlie: Okay.

But first I have something else for you.

[Katherine chuckles]

[traditional Chinese music]

*

This is given to you for your first decade on earth.

Hm, okay.

I've never had such a beautiful present.

You can do it, honey!

Push your foot down!

Steer the bike!

Push the other foot down!

Easy, easy.

You ready?

Ready!

Keep your feet moving!

Steer straight!

Pedal faster!

Charlie: You can do it! - Let go!

[gasps]

Yvette: Ow!

Are you okay? -You okay?

Show mama.

Told you to pedal faster.

So?

What's grade six like?

Oh, I'm going to be an Indian chief in the play!

Miss Scott says I kinda look like an Indian.

[coughs] What?

Yvette: Carl's in it too.

Which Chief is he playing?

Yvette: Carl's going to be a soldier.

Carl: The play is really dumb.

They do it every year.

Least I get a fake gun this time.

Yvette: It's for the spring pageant.

It's about Laura Secord.

Mm.

Who's Laura Secord?

She warned the British about an American sneak attack.

In the War of 1812.

Around Niagara Falls a big war took place.

Charlie: How do you know that?

History that gets pushed down your throats.

Well.

I'm happy for you guys.

[Katherine chuckles]

[electric guitar music]

[bell tinkles] [door closing]

[electric guitar music]

*

[banging]

Hey Great Wall guy!

Your machine took my nickel.

Song ended.

You calling me a liar, old man?

Get out of here before I call your father!

[boy scoffing]

[tense music]

[bell tinkles] [door opens and closes]

[car doors slam]

[car engine engaging]

I was ready, Dad.

I am a good Indian.

[school bell ringing]

Yvette: White chief say true:

we good King George's men.

My warriors yell!

Hide! Shoot!

Hot bullet fly like dart of arrow.

We keep dem Long-Knife back.

What was that, Yvette?

Speak more haltingly,

more like an Indian.

Do you know what I mean?

I think so.

Do it again.

White chief say true:

We good King-

Miss Scott: No.

Like this.

[clears throat]

[in gruff mocking voice] My warriors yell!

Hide! Shoot!

Hot bullet fly, like dart of arrow.

You see?

Just like that.

Now you do it.

My warriors yell!

Hide! Shoot!

Hot bullet fly like dart of arrow.

Miss Scott: Perfect.

We'll make an Indian out of you yet.

Mom! Dad!

I'm a real Indian!

Miss Scott says so!

She says I'm the best Indian she's ever seen!

[Charlie laughs]

Go tell your mother.

Are you a good Indian too?

Nope!

[kettle whistling]

Mom?

[tense rhythmic drumming]

Mommy's really hot!

We need ice!

[tense foreboding music]

*

Get Dr. Thompson.

[tense foreboding music]

*

Oh no.

[tense music continues]

*

Dr. Thompson: Yvette, you shouldn't be here.

But I want to stay with my mother!

Dr. Thompson: Yvette, go wait with your dad downstairs.

Come on, Yvette.

Dr. Thompson: I'll be finished here as soon as I can.

But it is gonna take some time.

[speaking in Chinese] [soft tense music]

Thank you, Charlie.

Charles, I'm praying for Katherine.

And I'm so happy you have support from your community.

Charlie: I've known them for a long time.

They've come from far away distances.

Why are they praying for Mommy?

They want Mommy to get better.

Did you cure her?

No, no, no, my dear.

She has a fever so I've given her penicillin.

Is that a medicine?

How long 'til she gets better?

Well, we'll know in a few hours.

Right now I need you to watch her fever.

If it suddenly shoots up,

you get ahold of me right away.

[in Cree] Kininaaskoomitin Keechi'Manitou.

That's Cree, right?

Moshum said always give thanks for the medicine.

But right now I need you to pray for your mom.

Can you do that for me?

[soft sombre music]

[soft rhythmic drumming]

[voices whispering] [soft rhythmic drumming]

[Katherine moans]

Yvette: I'm here, Mom.

Thank you, Yvette.

Where's Carl?

Outside.

Where's Dad?

In the kitchen with his friends.

The penicillin is working.

I can feel it.

Stay in bed!

You're not better.

You don't need to pretend you're better.

You just need to rest.

Make me some tea, honey.

I wish Moshum was here.

Dr. Thompson: It's rheumatic fever,

so you need to rest as much as you can.

And do not, I repeat, do not stress your body.

I'm gonna get Yvette to watch you.

She always watches me.

Dr. Thompson?

Yes?

I want to be a doctor but Miss Scott says I can't.

Of course you can be a doctor,

if you study hard enough.

It's hard work, the world's changing,

and we're gonna need doctors like you.

You tell Miss Scott I said so.

See?

[Yvette chuckles]

[nostalgic piano music]

*

*

[music stops]

I saw an American shoulder, I mean soldier and I-

[kids snickering]

[whispers] And I ran to the next farm to get help.

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

I saw an American shoulder...

[laughing]

I mean soldier and I ran to the next barn to get hay.

Yvette: White chief say true:

we good King George's men.

My warriors yell!

Hide! Shoot!

Hot bullet fly like dart of arrow.

We keep dem Long-Knife back.

I just go now.

[audience laughing]

[audience laughing]

[audience applauding]

You two were the best on stage.

Reminded me of Chinese opera.

[soft delicate music]

One day, you'll see.

We'll go there.

[Katherine coughing]

[Katherine sighs]

You both looked so good in that play.

You made us proud.

But you do know that's not how Indians really talk?

I know, Mom.

Goodnight, Mom.

[soft delicate music]

*

[soft delicate music]

*

Charlie: This will warm you up.

I'm going to sleep downstairs tonight

so you can have the bed to yourself.

You will need the space for your pillows.

I don't know what I'd do without you, Charlie.

You make my life better.

[soft delicate music]

[Katherine speaks Cree]

Charlie: Yvette!

Breakfast is getting cold.

[birds chirping]

Charlie: Yvette!

I'm coming! I'm coming!

Geez, it's not even eight yet.

Mom, breakfast.

Mom?

Mom!

[Yvette gasps]

[echoing] Mom?

Mom!

Mom!

[solemn music]

[thunder rumbling] [rain pattering]

Reverend Smith: In Jesus' name, amen.

[solemn music continues]

*

[thunder rumbling]

[solemn music continues]

[lighter flicking]

[solemn music continues]

*

[thunder rumbling]

[solemn music continues]

Katherine: [echoing] I don't know what I'd do without you, Charlie.

You make my life better.

[speaking Chinese]

Charlie, let us know how we can help you.

You have always helped us in the past,

and uh, we are here to help.

[soft solemn music]

*

Dad?

What are we going to do now?

[Charlie crying]

[students laughing] [solemn music continues]

[solemn music continues]

*

I'm really sorry to hear what happened to your mom.

Is it true when Chinese women die

they turn into cats?

Shut up you scumbag and leave me alone!

Get away from my sister!

Don't talk about my mother!

[grunting]

Carl, watch out!

Hey!

[grunting]

[kids laughing]

Yvette: Let go of my hair!

What is going on here?

Yvette, Carl, sit down at your desks!

Yvette, tell me what is going on here.

Richard said my mom turned into a cat after she died.

Your mother?

Did she...?

She did die, Miss Scott.

Four days ago.

Oh dear.

I see.

I'm sorry to hear that Yvette and Carl.

Well...

Miss Scott, I was just asking a question.

I asked if when Chinese women die

do they turn into cats?

My mom's not even Chinese!

Carl, no!

Richard: If she's not Chinese what is she then?

White?

Miss Scott, isn't that illegal?

Well, yes, but...

Nobody cares what you think, idiot!

Yvette! In the corner now!

If you can't behave yourself at school,

then you should've stayed home!

[kids laughing]

Miss Scott: You will stand there silently until recess.

Hopefully that will teach you to behave

like a proper young lady.

And not some feral animal.

[soft tense music]

*

I hate grade six.

[heartbeat thumping] [soft gentle music]

[gentle instrumental]

[crowd chanting]

[crowd cheering and applauding]

[roaring]

[Yvette sighs]

[soft distorted music]

*

[whooshing] [crowd applauding]

[soft distorted music]

[whooshing] [crowd applauding]

[soft distorted music]

[Yvette shudders]

[soft distorted music]

[casual pop music]

*

Where do you have to catch the bus?

Downtown.

Dad will give me a ride.

When are you coming back?

At the end of the term.

Wish I was going to military school.

Sounds like fun.

Yeah, can't wait for basic combat training.

Plus I get to study chemistry.

The army needs lots of different specialties.

Hmm, you'll be the smartest meathead in the army.

Well I'm already the smartest in this family, so.

Oh, just remember who helped you study

for the entrance exam.

[Carl laughs]

Well, I get to hold a gun.

Okay, yeah.

You win.

It'll be just me and him.

You'll be good, sis.

[Carl sighs]

Well here I go.

[soft piano music]

Bye, Captain Wong.

And stay out of my room.

Don't snoop. I mean it.

Geez!

Just get outta here, would ya?

[Yvette laughs]

[soft gentle music]

[door opens and closes]

[Yvette sighing]

Carl: Love you.

Yvette: I love you too, my brother.

[car engine starts]

Good morning, Yvette.

Good morning.

Can I see you in my office when you have a sec?

[dark tense music] [wind chimes tinkle]

Yvette: You asked to see me?

Mr. Tanner: Yes.

Your math teacher gave me your test.

You got 100% on the assignment.

And you answered all the extra questions

and got them right as well.

But you can only get 100%.

That's okay.

They were fun.

Fun?

Have you given any thought to university?

It's all I think about.

Um, but we can't afford university right now.

Ah, well, with grades like yours

you'll have no problem getting a scholarship.

There's plenty of money out there

for a bright student like yourself.

Would you like me to look into that?

That would be amazing.

Mr. Tanner: And as the valedictorian,

you'd be a shoe-in.

What?

You're the graduate class valedictorian.

Congratulations.

[Yvette laughs]

Are you sure?

There's no one else that's come close

to having grades like yours.

You'll be the first Chinese student

to give the valedictory address.

You're making history, Yvette.

I'm sure it won't be the last time.

I've never made a speech before.

Life's complicated right now.

Well if I were you I would figure out

how to uncomplicate it.

[school bell ringing]

[wind chimes tinkling]

[echoing] When I become a doctor I'll look after you.

You look after me now, honey.

Charlie: Always studying.

Hey. You're home early.

Mm.

Boss said I can take a couple days off.

The boss always looks the other way

when he knows you're drinking.

I made you your favourite pizza.

[Yvette sighs]

It's quiet without Carl.

Yeah, he makes a lot of noise.

And have you ever noticed the way he eats?

[imitates slurping food]

[muffled] And he eats a lot.

[laughing]

Yvette: And the way he drinks?

[imitates gulping]

[laughing]

[Yvette laughing]

Oh my God.

Dad.

Oh my God!

And that horse laugh of his.

[imitates horse laughing]

[Charlie laughs]

[both laughing]

And, oh!

Always pretending to be Mr. Tough Guy.

[Yvette chuckles]

I'm going to miss him.

Me too.

British Radio Announcer: Good evening, ladies and gentlemen.

And into today's weather news update

from across the pond.

Today we saw torrential rain knocking out bridges

and wiping out roads.

People had to-

[in British voice] And the price of grain has risen substantially

in the past few weeks due to the long awaited rain.

More on that now from our prairie reporter.

[in British voice] And we will continue to see dairy products

as they continue to rise in price.

[giggling]

British Radio Announcer: In other news,

the stock market fell another few points today.

This will see big impacts to the automotive industry

and the farmer's market.

So be prepared for rising-

[radio static buzzing]

[gentle Chinese music]

*

Dad, I think you should go to bed.

I think we should move back to China.

[Yvette laughs]

What?

I...

we should move back to China.

There's nothing left for us here anymore.

China?

Dad, no.

[Yvette chuckles]

I can take care of you better.

Carl is gone now.

We have family there.

I can find you a husband.

Dad, I think you should go to bed.

Sleep it off.

We'll talk tomorrow.

[soft rhythmic drumming]

["Way Hey Yoh Hay" by Michelle and Morningstar Deroiser & Elizabeth Hill]

[singing in Cree]

*

*

*

[man speaks in Cree]

Are you one of us or one of them?

What do you mean?

Are you of Asian persuasion or from the Indian Nation?

My mother was an Indian.

That's okay. My mother's an Indian too.

And my father's a...

[in British voice] British commander!

[Maggie giggles]

Ladies and gentlemen

now appearing on the stage, may I present to you,

Miss Indian Princess!

Oh.

[people laughing]

Miss Indian Princess?

Maggie: Hey, there you are.

You didn't have to run away!

Hey, don't freak out.

I'm not gonna bite you.

So serious.

Okay, let's start again.

I'm Maggie Wolfe.

Yvette.

Yvette Wong.

Pleasure to meet you, Dr. Wong.

You got a boyfriend?

No.

Yeah, me neither.

Boys are afraid of me.

[Maggie giggles]

So.

What do you do for excitement around here?

Nothing.

Nothing?

You're killing me, Doc!

What are you doing after school?

Going home.

And studying.

Okay, no.

That's just sad.

It's not going down like this.

Someone's gotta be throwing a party somewhere.

Show me what kind of fun you can have

in old Toon Town.

I can't-

I can't just go to a stranger's house.

Oh God.

So, when do I pick you up?

I, I don't know if I can...go.

Look, do you wanna be that kid for the rest of your life?

I mean, look at you.

Chinese girls are so beautiful!

It's such a shame that you're hiding that face

behind a book.

Okay.

Meet me at the corner store.

Nine o'clock.

Us hot half-breed girls gotta stick together.

Nine?

Isn't that kinda late?

[Maggie giggling]

A party?

[casual upbeat music]

Come on, we'll pop by my place.

I might have something that'll fit you.

Little sister!

She's the one who fed us before.

Maggie: She does have a big heart.

Um, just wait.

Here.

It's all I got.

I hope you can find your way home.

[man speaks Cree]

Yvette: Maggie!

You gave them money?

My mother taught me to be kind.

They're all my relation and yours.

Which makes them ours.

Now come on, we're gonna be late!

Okay.

Oh my God.

This is gonna be so hip.

[soft rock music]

Not bad, not bad.

[Maggie giggles]

Didn't you ever raid your mom's closet?

Uh, no.

She died when I was 10.

Oh.

Really?

Can I see?

Yvette: Her name is Katherine.

[soft delicate music]

She's gorgeous.

I've got just the thing.

[upbeat rock music]

*

Wow! There.

Fit for a runway in Paris.

[upbeat rock music]

Maggie: I've got the perfect thing.

My boots will match your belt.

Okay, don't worry.

We're not gonna walk far.

Here, this'll steady your gait.

No thanks.

Suit yourself.

Hey, um, I'm not sure about this.

I have to think about university.

I want to be a doctor.

And there's this scholarship-

Oh my God.

[upbeat rock music]

Hi!

Aw man, look who it is!

[boys laughing]

[upbeat rock music]

Come on!

* Sug, sug, sug, sug, sugar pie *

* Sug, sug, sug, sug, sugar pie *

* Sug, sug, sug, sug, sugar pie of love *

[Maggie laughing] [people chattering]

* Sug, sug, sug, sug, sugar pie *

* Sug, sug, sug, sug, sugar pie of love *

[people chattering]

* Oh he makes me such a fool for it *

* Sug, sug, sug, sug, sugar pie *

* Sug, sug, sug, sug, sugar pie *

* Sug, sug, sug, sugar pie of love *

[music distorting]

*

[music fades]

[Yvette retching]

Yvette?

[Yvette coughs] [toilet flushing]

Are you sick?

[door opening]

Yvette? Are you sick?

What's wrong?

What is wrong with your face?

And these clothes?

Where did you get these clothes?

Are you in trouble?

I see.

You have a letter.

It looks important.

It's from the university.

University?

[Yvette gasps]

I've been accepted with a full scholarship!

Wow!

Mr. Tanner works fast.

We can't afford university.

Dad.

It's with a full scholarship.

It means they'll pay for tuition, books,

for residence.

Everything.

You don't need me anymore.

Don't say that.

When I become a doctor

I will take care of you.

When?

When are you gonna become a doctor?

Eight years.

Ten, I don't... I don't know.

Long time.

Dad...

I'll take care of both of us when I finish.

You've worked too hard.

I know I can do this.

Okay? Just let me.

Please?

Okay. Okay.

But I want you to consider China.

My true home.

I want it to be yours.

[footsteps pattering]

[Mr. Tanner sighs]

Some of the other students mentioned that you were seen

hanging around Maggie Wolfe this weekend.

I know that you probably don't have

a lot of experience with Indians.

Just a word of advice,

stay away from them.

They're trouble.

Now. You should be getting some forms

from the University of Saskatchewan.

You just have your father sign them

and you'll be all set.

Why does he have to sign them?

It's a wonderful scholarship.

Any father will be proud to sign them.

Not my dad.

This is your future, Yvette.

And remember what I said about Maggie, yeah?

You stay away from her.

And anyone like her.

That's half the city of Saskatoon.

[soft solemn music]

I don't ever wanna see those clothes or you again.

[soft solemn music continues]

*

Mom? -Yvette?

Oh my God, my girl, you've grown.

Auntie Doris?

Thought you were my mother for a moment.

We didn't know what happened when you guys left Gordon,

when Katherine died.

Why didn't you look for us?

Your mom was so angry the last time we saw her.

She didn't want anything to do with us.

I know.

I remember.

Well...

don't just stand there.

Aren't you gonna invite your old auntie in for some tea?

Yeah.

[soft piano music]

[geese honking]

[heart beating] [soft piano music]

[voices whispering] [soft piano music]

I'm living in Saskatoon now.

It's kind of hard to find you.

You're not in the phone book.

No phone.

Nobody to talk to.

How is Amos?

And Mary?

Doing well.

Still practicing medicine

and teaching young people our ways.

He stopped boozing a long time ago.

He's a good man.

Dad, maybe I don't have to move to China.

Maybe I can live with Auntie Doris

and go to university.

Oh.

Dad has to sign these papers

or else I won't get the scholarship.

I can find you a fine husband in China.

Someone who can take care of us.

At least we will be with our own people.

I don't want a husband.

Dad, I'm only sixteen.

And I don't even speak Chinese.

Your mother wanted you to be the best student you could be.

She wanted you to learn

to be the best Canadian you could.

And I am.

Doris: Yvette.

Your dad is just trying to protect you.

Our children are disappearing.

Stay close to him.

My heart hurts when I think about you and my son.

Both trying to have a life

but always fighting against the ones

who think they deserve it more for nothing.

At one point I thought I had to take you

to the Children's Aid.

But you didn't.

We are doing good here.

Just look at this place.

Dad, we have everything we need.

[gentle solemn music]

*

*

Charlie, wait.

When your mom left the reserve, she was young.

There were no jobs. There was nothing.

[people chattering] [birds chirping]

Indians couldn't leave unless they got permission

from the Indian Agent.

And they never did.

Your mom was my hero.

She wrote that she met a kind Chinese man,

the most exciting person she'd ever known.

Dad was exciting?

He was!

And handsome too.

Do you still think of Mom?

Every day.

But she's still here with you and me

and I know she would want us to be together.

I miss her.

I do too.

I have something for you.

[school bell ringing]

How did you?

Your dad really wants the best for you.

Is everything all right, Yvette?

Is this woman bothering you?

I'm her aunt!

And who are you white man?

It's all right. He's my teacher.

Mr. Tanner, this is my mother's sister,

Doris Horseknife.

What?

I see.

Don't be late for class.

He thinks I'm only Chinese.

He told me Indians are trouble.

They're all the same.

I'd really like to show him some trouble.

I gotta go.

Class is starting soon.

Mr. Tanner, my dad signed the papers.

[paper tearing]

I've misjudged you, Yvette.

I can't in good conscience have my name

associated with your application.

You clearly lack integrity.

I don't understand.

Well it seems you had your hand

in bringing alcohol to a party with Maggie.

Did you not?

You could have jeopardized the safety

of a lot of innocent kids.

I wanted to have you suspended

but the principal wouldn't hear of it

because of your grades.

But he did agree that you are no longer

a suitable class valedictorian.

I also didn't know you're an Indian.

Auntie Doris.

[tense music]

[echoing] Don't let anyone know you're an Indian.

Do you understand me?

People will not be nice to you.

[people ululating] [rhythmic drumming]

I am a good Indian.

[knocking at door]

It's me, Yvette!

I just wanna talk.

[dogs barking]

[Yvette sighs]

[soft piano music]

[Yvette sighing]

[soft piano music continues]

*

Hey.

Maggie, I'm sorry.

You know, you were the closest I came

to having a friend.

The girls at the party told Mr. Tanner.

I didn't.

[Maggie sighs]

Yeah, I know.

You're not so bad, Dr. Wong.

[Yvette sniffs]

I hate this.

I did everything I was supposed to do.

Got good grades.

Stayed away from all the distractions

a girl like me is supposed to.

Maggie: Oh Yvette.

You are the smartest and the shortest person I know.

[both laughing]

Yeah, I'm pretty smart.

Charlie: What are you doing?

More homework?

No.

Writing a letter.

Who are you writing to?

Mom.

Why do you want to do that?

I miss her.

I miss her too.

Tell her I tried my best.

Will you say that in your letter for me?

Yep.

Tell her about Carl.

That he's in soldier school now

and he's going to be a chemical engineer.

Whatever that is.

[pen scribbling]

I'll tell her I saw Auntie Doris today.

She will like that.

I told Auntie Doris to come visit anytime.

[kettle whistling]

[school bell ringing]

They have a new valedictorian.

A cheerleader.

[they laugh]

You didn't want to be valedictorian anyways.

Auntie Doris says the world is full of Mr. Tanners.

I have to get used to it.

Your auntie knows what she's talking about.

[tense music] [heart beat thudding]

[giggling]

Carl!

When did you get here?

How did you get here?

There's this invention called a bus.

Like a big car you pay money and get on it.

They take you to different towns.

It's very modern.

[laughing] Ow!

Charlie: He wanted to see you graduate.

It's a big day for all of us.

I'm going to make some tea.

He likes his tea especially when he has company.

[Amos shouts in Cree]

Doris: They really wanted to be here for Yvette.

Yvette: Kokum Mary?

Moshum?

[soft rhythmic drumming]

[woman singing in Cree]

*

*

I don't know how to hold it.

You just hold it.

Dr. Thompson: Presenting our future doctor, Yvette Wong.

The youngest one to graduate high school

in the whole province.

I think Yvette should say a few words.

[audience applauding]

[bright piano music]

My mother, Katherine Horseknife

was a Cree Indian.

And my father, Charlie Wong,

is a Chinese immigrant.

I am proud to be their daughter.

It has been a journey

and I love all my relations.

And I am here to serve them.

Kininaaskoomitin Keechi'Manitou.

Thank you, Creator.

[bright inspiring music]

*

[audience applauding]

[Maggie squeals excitedly]

[soft piano music]

*

Dear Mom.

Hi.

I've been writing this letter for a long time.

Carl became a soldier and got his degree.

He looks very handsome in his uniform.

Dad says that he tried his best

to keep us together as a family.

He's missed you terribly.

Thank goodness he gave up on the idea

of moving back to China.

We're going back there for a visit someday.

Today I've qualified to get into medical school.

It was harder than I thought it would be.

You told me I could do anything if I wanted it.

Our family has thrived.

I love you Mom.

[soft piano music]

*

*

[soft rhythmic drumming]

[rhythmic vocalization]

*

*

*

*