Independent Lens Season 21 Episode 5
Independent Lens
Season 21

Ep 5. ATTLA

  • December 16, 2019
  • 7.5  (9)

ATTLA is an inspiring new documentary in the twenty-first season of Independent Lens, focusing on the life and legacy of legendary dog musher George Attla. The film tells the story of Attla's journey from a small village in Alaska to becoming one of the most celebrated and successful dog racers of all time. Through interviews with family members, former competitors, and Attla himself, viewers learn about the challenges he faced as a Native athlete, the strategies he developed to win, and his lifelong dedication to the sport.

The film opens in rural Alaska, where Attla grew up as a member of the Koyukon Athabascan tribe. Attla's father was a trapper and fisherman who owned a team of sled dogs and taught Attla how to mush from a young age. Attla quickly realized he had a natural talent for dog racing and began competing in local races with his father's team. Despite his success, Attla faced discrimination from white competitors who saw him as a threat to their dominance.

As Attla matured, he became more ambitious and began training his own team of dogs. His persistence paid off when he won his first major race, the All-Alaska Sweepstakes, in 1958. Attla's victory catapulted him to national attention and earned him the nickname "the Huslia Hustler." Over the following decades, Attla went on to win ten championships and secure his place as one of the greatest dog racers of all time.

ATTLA also explores the personal obstacles Attla faced throughout his career. Attla's health declined as he aged, and he was diagnosed with tuberculosis, which forced him to take a break from racing. He also struggled with alcohol addiction, which threatened to derail his career and personal life. However, through perseverance and support from his family, friends, and fellow mushers, Attla was able to overcome these challenges and continue racing.

The documentary also puts Attla's accomplishments in a larger context, exploring the history of dog racing in Alaska and the role it played in Native communities. The film highlights the importance of dog mushing as a means of transportation and survival in rural Alaska, as well as the cultural significance of the sport to Native identity. ATTLA also features interviews with several Native Alaskan mushers, who discuss their own experiences and the challenges they have faced in the sport.

Through archival footage and new interviews, ATTLA paints a vivid picture of Attla's life and legacy. Viewers see Attla's fierce determination and competitive spirit, as well as his warmth and humor. The film also showcases Attla's contributions to the sport of dog racing, including developing new sled designs and training techniques that are still used today.

Overall, ATTLA is a moving and inspiring tribute to a true Alaskan legend. The film celebrates Attla's perseverance in the face of discrimination and adversity, as well as his contributions to the cultural and sporting history of Alaska. It also invites viewers to consider the importance of preserving Native traditions and honoring the legacy of those who came before.

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Description
  • First Aired
    December 16, 2019
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    7.5  (9)