Blog posting written by Kaley Belval, Documentary Studies and Production '15, FLEFF Intern, Woodbury, CT.

Friday, March 30th, the choice between seeing Koch Brothers Exposed and Kissed by Lightning, a film by Shelley Niro, was an easy one. 

Although I thought that Koch Brothers Exposed would be interesting, I knew that the opportunity to see Niro's film, and be in the audience with her, was one of a rare occasion. 

The film was amazing; it was funny at times and sad at others and the audience seemed to interact with it as each piece of action occurred. The juxtaposition of contemporary life and traditional Mohawk stories was incredible and provided the audience with a new style that I, at least, have never before witnessed. 

There was such a community atmosphere, and everyone was truly engaged in the film's events. When it was over, the questions were thoughtful and it was revealed that the beautiful paintings shown in the film were the creations of Niro herself. 

After watching Kissed by Lightning, I felt inclined to watch more Native American films and I hope to start watching more in the near future.