Hungarian Film ‘Four Souls of Coyote’ Reviewed: A Profound Depiction of Native American Origin Stories

Mythologies of creation are intrinsic to every culture, aiming to explain humanity’s place within a cosmic framework. Much like the Mayans’ “Popol Vuh” or the Genesis accounts of Judeo-Christian tradition, the Hungarian animated film “Four Souls of Coyote” by Áron Gauder provides a fresh narrative.

This film reimagines the origins of Turtle Island (present-day North America) and its creatures through the lens of Northeastern Indigenous lore. Set against the backdrop of modern-day environmental protests led by both Native Americans and others, an elderly Indigenous figure recounts an ancient creation myth.

The tale features an Old Man Creator (voiced by Lorne Cardinal), who conjures the world from his dreams and the mysterious spirit known as “the great mysterious.” This narrative uncovers with inventive animation, showing the creation of land and life with a playful manipulation of the film’s visual elements.

The design of the Old Man Creator is angular, lending an almost sculptural quality that complements the film’s earthy feel. By blending hand-drawn and computer-generated visuals, Gauder’s team crafts a compelling portrayal of mythology. A dramatic sequence where the Old Man Creator’s anger materializes as a talking, pencil-sketched snake emphasizes primitive instincts.

In a dream sequence, the Old Man Creator merges four rebellious coyotes into a single entity, Coyote (voiced by Diontae Black), who is given four lives before being exiled. Coyote’s hunger leads him to create Man and Woman from the same substance used by the Old Man, though he is prevented from consuming them. His schemes and ultimate demise propel the story, echoing the comedic missteps of Wile E. Coyote.

Coyote’s evolution from arrogance to redemption underscores the idea that human importance is intertwined with that of other creatures within life’s grand design. The narrative celebrates the role of Coyote as an agent of change rather than merely a villain.

The film’s depiction of an assembly where animals seek companionship reflects an idealized vision of balance. Featuring a soulful score by Native American groups such as Ulali, Northern Cree, and Joanne Shenandoah, the film gains additional spiritual resonance.

Despite its Hungarian origins, “Four Souls of Coyote” integrates influences from Native American stories, inspired by Hungarian singer Tamás Cseh’s interest in these traditions. Gauder and co-writer Géza Bereményi, with input from Native American consultants, successfully merge gravity with humor, creating a film that, though ambitious, offers a richly engaging experience.