Goodluck and Lewitski Lead New Indigenous Road Trip Drama 'Skin Games'
Forrest Goodluck, known for his role in 'The Revenant', along with Phillip Forest Lewitski, Carmen Moore, Joel D. Montgrand, and William Belleau from 'Killers of the Flower Moon', have taken on the primary roles in 'Skin Games'. This marks the directorial debut for cinematographer Jon B. Elliot, with filming currently underway in Vancouver and across British Columbia.
The independent road trip narrative centers on two young Indigenous men incarcerated in a Vancouver facility. Jesse, portrayed by Lewitski, is a college student of Indigenous heritage who can pass as white, jailed following a drunken incident. Russell, played by Goodluck, is an Indigenous activist and artist from New Mexico, imprisoned for creating a politically charged mural. Despite their varied backgrounds, Jesse and Russell discover a profound connection, leading them to embark on a journey of self-discovery and confrontation of personal challenges upon their release, traveling to New Mexico.
Goodluck previously gained recognition as Hawk, the son of Leonardo DiCaprio's character in 'The Revenant', and has also appeared in 'The Wolf Will Tear Your Immaculate Hands' and 'How to Blow Up a Pipeline'. Lewitski's credits include roles in 'Utopia Falls', 'Masters of the Air', and the extensive 'Bones of Crow' series. The ensemble cast also features Matthew Alan Taylor and Jen Oleksiuk, recognized from 'DC's Legends of Tomorrow'. Photon Films will handle the distribution of 'Skin Games' within Canada, while producer Jessie Anthony will present the film to international buyers at TIFF: The Market in Toronto, representing Vandal Productions, Pass Through Productions, and Oystercatcher Films. Elliot, known for his work on 'The Knowing' and 'Amplify', is directing 'Skin Games' from a script penned by Justin Neal, with Cole Vandale also serving as a producer. Executive producer credits are shared by Patti Poskitt Neal, Elliot, Mark Slone, Sardé Hardie, Goodluck, and Forest Lewitski.
This film promises to be a compelling exploration of identity and connection, offering a nuanced portrayal of Indigenous experiences through the eyes of its characters. It highlights the power of shared journeys in overcoming adversity and fostering understanding.
