Very well executed

Perfect cast and a good story

Tells a fascinating and unsettling true story, and does so well, without pretending to have all the answers.

The movie really just wants to entertain people.

Wow. If it's not too late, try to go into this one completely blind - no trailers, synopses or reviews. I have never been so drawn in by the hero's tragic flaw than in this movie, and that flaw is casually dropped all over the web. The moment of realization was gut-wrenching. Watched this as part of an Eric Schweig binge and so far it may be his finest performance from the four or five films I've seen. (Graham Greene sort of goes without saying.)

Skins (2002) C-87m. ***½ D: Chris Eyre. Graham Greene, Eric Schweig, Gary Farmer, Michelle Thrush, Nathaniel Arcand, Noah Watts, Lois Red Elk, Chaske Spencer, Michael Spears, Myrton Running Wolf, Leonard George. Moving, searing film centering on the relationship of two contrasting Oglala Lakota brothers living on the Pine Ridge reservation. Compelling story wrestles issues ranging from alcoholism to brotherly love, accomplished in stark atmosphere with all-too-realistic touches that make it penetrating. Greene is unforgettable as a shattering drunkard. Written from Adrian C. Louis' same-titled novel by Jennifer D. Lyne.

"Skins" is an unabashed low budget indie which tells a meager story about life on South Dakota's impoverished Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. The film centers on an Indian cop/vigilante (Schweig) and his alcoholic Vietnam vet brother (Greene) and manages good character development, a semblance of story, humor, drama, and an obvious proactive Native American agenda. This austere production will be an average watch for most filmgoers while those with specific interest in Native American issues will find depth, substance, and resonance. (C+)Note - Those interested in "Skins" might want to give "Thunderheart 1992" (also with Graham Greene) a look.

I am a huge fan of director Chris Eyre and I loved "Smoke Signals" and I think that "Skins" is even better. It resonates with truth and kindness and forgiveness and unconditional love. The subject matter is at times hard to take, but it is sound in it's reality. Everybody simply has to see this movie! What are you waiting for go!!!