Dancing on the Moon

Award-winning filmmaker readys for next project
Follow-up to “Dancing on the Moon"

WICHITA KS
Sam Lewin 3/9/2004

Fresh off of his well-received debut feature movie, American Indian filmmaker Roderick Pocowatchit is already working on a follow-up. Pocowatchit, 38, just saw his debut, "Dancing on the Moon,” garner three American Indian LA Film and TV Award nominations, including Best Motion Picture. Pocowatchit was nominated for Best Supporting Actor, and his brother, Guy Ray, 35, won Best Actor this past weekend for his role in the film.

Speaking by phone with the Native American Times, Pocowatchit was still reeling from his success.

“ We thought it was all very exciting. Its amazing to be mentioned with all those other names,” he said.

Although modest, it is no fluke that Pocowatchit, who also works as a newspaper columnist in Wichita, made an impact in his first foray into full-length films. According to his official bio, Pocowatchit, Pawnee/Shawnee/Commanche, also has three short films to his credit. His most recent short, "Birthday," has been accepted into several film festivals, including winning third place at the second annual Wichita National Short Film Competition and the 2003 Tallgrass Film Festival in Wichita. He has also received the Horizon Award, a special jury prize recognizing up-and-coming talent in Native American cinema.

Pocowatchit is now writing another feature entitled “Sleepdancer.” He plays the lead this time around. Guy Ray is also in the cast.

“ It’s about a man who doesn’t speak because of a tragic car accident involving his son, and the only time he does speak and dance is in his sleep. That’s the only time he feels peace,” Pocowatchit said.

The film shoots the summer and could be slated for release by the late fall.

“ I’m looking forward to moving on to a new project. We learn more each time and we are getting better I hope.”