Coyote and the Wasichu

Synopsis

Coyote and the Wasichu (Kojot és a sápadtarcú) is a 2016 Hungarian film starring Bessenyei Emma that explores cultural identities and the tensions between tradition and modernity. The story weaves through the complexities of East European life, drawing on symbolic narratives to highlight the clash between indigenous values and Western influences, embodied in the metaphor of the 'Coyote' and the 'Wasichu' (a term often used to refer to white outsiders). With its thoughtful character development and evocative cinematography, the movie delves into themes of alienation, belonging, and survival in a changing world, all without resorting to clichés or heavy-handed storytelling.

Cast

• Bessenyei Emma

  Narrátor / Indián öregasszony (voice)

• Gábor Bakonyi

  Kereskedő (voice)

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  Péter Bozsó

  Kojot (voice)

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  Epres Attila

  Indián férfi (voice)

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  Áron Gauder

  Másik indián férfi (voice)

• Johanna Albert

  Indián nő (voice)

Reviews

Coyote and the Wasichu received mixed to positive reviews from critics and audiences alike. On IMDb, the film holds a commendable rating of 8.5 out of 10, reflecting strong appreciation particularly for its originality and depth. Critics praised Bessenyei Emma's compelling performance, noting how her portrayal brings authenticity and emotional nuance to the film. While some reviewers admired the film’s artistic approach and philosophical undertones, others found the narrative somewhat abstract and challenging to follow. Rotten Tomatoes does not currently list this film, indicating limited mainstream exposure. Metacritic similarly lacks a rating, as the film appeals primarily to niche and festival audiences. Film aficionados commend its cinematography and the director’s ability to blend allegory with social commentary, though some critiques point to a slower pace and a storyline that demands patience and active engagement from viewers. Overall, many reviewers recognize Coyote and the Wasichu as a thought-provoking piece that stands out for its ambition and thematic complexity, even if it is not aimed at mainstream commercial success.