
Broken Rainbow 1985
"There is no Word for Relocation in the Navajo Language; to Relocate is to Disappear and Never be Seen Again."
Broken Rainbow (1985), directed by Victoria Mudd, is a poignant documentary that uncovers a dark chapter in American history.
Director: Victoria Mudd
Cast

Frequently Asked Questions
What is Broken Rainbow (1985) about?
This documentary examines the U.S. government's forced relocation of 10,000 Navajo people from their traditional lands in Arizona during the mid-1900s. It reveals how this policy, dressed in bureaucratic language, led to profound cultural and personal loss for the Navajo community.
Who directed Broken Rainbow?
Victoria Mudd directed Broken Rainbow (1985), bringing a sensitive and immersive approach to this historical and human rights-focused documentary.
Who stars in Broken Rainbow?
The documentary features notable voices including Peter MacDonald, Mae Horseson, Hosteen Nez, Jerry Kammer, and Jane Biakeddy.
Is Broken Rainbow (1985) worth watching?
As an unrated but critically noted documentary, Broken Rainbow (1985) is absolutely worth watching for its historical importance and emotional depth. Its thoughtful storytelling and powerful themes make it a memorable film for anyone interested in Native American history or documentaries that challenge injustice.
How long is Broken Rainbow?
Broken Rainbow (1985) has a runtime of 70 minutes.
Broken Rainbow: Devastating 1985 Documentary on Navajo Relocation — Full Movie Info
Broken Rainbow (1985), directed by Victoria Mudd, is a poignant documentary that uncovers a dark chapter in American history. The film vividly recounts the forced relocation of over 10,000 Navajo people from their ancestral lands in Arizona during the mid-20th century, a policy framed as 'relocation' but experienced as erasure. Through powerful firsthand accounts and archival footage, Mudd crafts an intimate yet sweeping narrative that explores themes of displacement, cultural loss, and resilience. The documentary's somber tone and unflinching honesty create an atmosphere of solemn reflection, making it a vital record of injustice that lingers long after the credits roll.
Starring voices like Peter MacDonald and Mae Horseson, Broken Rainbow (1985) blends personal stories with broader historical context, shedding light on a government policy that aimed to dismantle Navajo communities. The film's historical significance and emotional depth position it as both a historical artifact and a call for understanding and restitution. As a documentary, it challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths while honoring the voices of those who endured these traumatic events.
Available to stream or download on select platforms, Broken Rainbow (1985) offers a compelling watch for history enthusiasts and those seeking thought-provoking cinema that transcends its 70-minute runtime.