The Dark Wind (1991 film)
| Company type | Film |
|---|---|
| Industry | Motion picture |
| Founded | 1991 |
| Products | Mystery drama film |
The Dark Wind is a 1991 American mystery drama film adapted from The Dark Wind by Tony Hillerman, which is part of a series portraying modern Navajo life in the Southwestern United States. The movie features Lou Diamond Phillips portraying Officer Jim Chee and Fred Ward as Lieutenant Joe Leaphorn.
Synopsis
While investigating vandalism at a windmill, Officer Jim Chee (played by Lou Diamond Phillips) encounters a nearby small plane crash. The investigation broadens to encompass murder, drug trafficking, and burglary. When narcotics from the downed aircraft disappear, Chee himself falls under suspicion.
Cast
- Lou Diamond Phillips as Officer Jim Chee
- Fred Ward as Lt. Joe Leaphorn
- John Karlen as Jake West
- Gary Farmer as Deputy Cowboy Albert Dashee
- Michelle Thrush as Shirley Topaha
- Guy Boyd as Agent Johnson
- Blake Clark as Ben Gaines
- Gary Basaraba as Larry
Reception
This film marked the dramatic directorial debut of documentary filmmaker Errol Morris. Executive producer Robert Redford intended to initiate a series of film adaptations; however, he expressed dissatisfaction with both casting choices and overall production, describing it as "miscast" and "ill-conceived." Additionally, Redford highlighted issues with inadequate distribution. Morris departed from the project citing "artistic differences" with Redford.