The Pop-Up Culture Club of Ukiah presents Winter in the Blood, a 2014 feature by filmmakers Alex and Andrew Smith. Adapted from the 1974 novel by award-winning author James Welch (Blackfeet/A’aninin), Winter in the Blood tells the story of an anguished young man, half American Indian and half Anglo, haunted by the memories and spirits of his father and brother, and in search of some sort of anchor to hold onto. The film explores issues of Native identity, economic hardship, alcohol abuse, racism, and the value of family. Shot on location in northern Montana.

Welch is considered one of the writers who launched a literary movement now known as the Native American Renaissance. In addition to Winter in the Blood, his books include the novel Fools Crow, the non-fiction Killing Custer: The Battle of Little Bighorn and the Fate of the Plains Indians, and numerous works of poetry. Alex and Andrew Smith are filmmakers from Montana, and grew up knowing James Welch as a family friend. Other films by the Smiths include The Slaughter Rule, starring Ryan Gosling and Amy Adams, and most recently Walking Out, with Matt Bomer and Bill Pullman. Both films premiered at the Sundance Film Festival and both were nominated for Indie Spirit awards.

The screening is FREE to the general public, and will be followed by a Q&A with filmmaker Andrew Smith. Appropriate for ages 14 and up.