BLACKSTONE RETURNS WITH SEASON 3 ON APTN

It’s not easy being chief. Season 3 continues this fall on APTN with a raw, uncompromising look at the fictional community of Blackstone First Nation.

Executive Producer and Director Ron E. Scott of Prairie Dog Films says, “It may be our most explosive season yet and we look forward to having our viewers experience it.”

Chief Andy Fraser (portrayed by Eric Schweig) takes leave of his leadership responsibilities to deal with the fallout from the discovery of a body in the Blackstone dump. Victor Merasty (Nathaniel Arcand) tries to gain community support in his ‘appointed’ role on the essential services committee.

Meanwhile, the Stoney sisters, Leona and Gail (played respectively by award-winning actresses Carmen Mooore and Michelle Thrush) are adjusting to their new guardianship roles to little Wendy Bull, whose mother disappeared. Recovering alcoholic Gail is finding that it takes more to be a mom than previous experience.

Scott characterizes Leona Stoney as being more of “a healer, not a leader” as her stint as Chief in Season One, was unsuccessful.

Scott says, “Blackstone is an Aboriginal production competing with non-Aboriginal shows. We need to entertain while we’re still telling the story.”

Scott adds that Blackstone is not for everyone. “The Aboriginal community (on the show) is not unlike other communities. It’s also another way to understanding, a desire to learn about some of the challenges Aboriginal people face.”

“Not every reserve is the same, (whether it’s in) Ontario, the West Coast or Manitoba. There’s variety in the different nations so we tried to find a middle ground, by modelling the Plains Cree.

“I’ve talked to Chiefs and councillors and community members that say, ’That’s just like my reserve’–even as far away as Montana. The show resonates.”

Scott says a lot plot ideas are ripped from the headlines and that’s why the show is relatable. The show has covered, among other things, huffing, missing women, the child welfare system, even how the volunteer fire department works on reserve. The show also looks at federal policies with story-lines showing how women have no rights in their own homes (even if you are the wife of the Chief) and the Indian Act and “how full of holes it is.”

Scott adds that Blackstone has started a dialogue in some communities. “I’ve even heard of the show affecting by-laws– and that’s rewarding.”

Season Three also has exciting expansion in the plot and characters people can look forward too. Among the new characters introduced are a few familiar faces. Dakota House of North of 60 fame makes an appearance as Ned and award-winning actress Tantoo Cardinal appears as Wilma Stoney. And you can probably count the introduction of the new reserve, Sitting Rock, as a new character as well.

“(On the show) Sitting Rock has a great reputation. Their economy has evolved by manufacturing modular homes. Victor tries to create an alliance and bring some of that to Blackstone. But he soon finds out it takes time to gain support from the community.” “It’s about hope and reconciliation. Watch the show, watch the message.”

NEW EPISODES OF ‘BLACKSTONE’ AIRS EVERY WEDNESDAY ON APTN – CHECK YOUR LOCAL LISTINGS FOR TIMES

– Miranda Hanus