Remaining Native is a coming-of-age documentary told from the perspective of 17-year-old Native American runner Ku Stevens. While pursuing his dream of running in college, Ku grapples with his family’s history. Memories of his great grandfather’s escape from an Indian boarding school surface, and Ku compassionately explores the legacy of the past and how it shapes his present, his ambitions, and his vision for the future. Slowly, an inspiring plan takes shape for Ku that may help bring healing to his family and community.
Special Jury Prize, Audience Award, SXSW 2025
Oct 7: Q&A
Supported by
Kutoven “Ku” Stevens
USA
2025
English
Residential schools
Credits & Director
Executive Producer
Randy Gebhardt, Christopher Gebhardt, Dawn Bonder, Daniel J. Chalfen, Marci Wiseman, Andrea Meditch, Billy Mills, Tracy Rector, Wendy Ettinger
Producer
Jessica Epstein, Paige Bethmann, Judd Ehrlich
Cinematography
Shai Ben-Dor, Paige Bethmann
Editor
Stephanie Khoury
Original Music
Kino Benally
Paige Bethmann
Paige Bethmann is a Haudenosaunee woman (Mohawk/Oneida) and first-time feature filmmaker based in Reno, Nevada. Over the last 10 years, she has worked in non-fiction television for various digital and broadcast networks such as ESPN, PBS, Vox Media, Youtube Originals, USA, and NBC. She is a graduate of Ithaca College, with a bachelor’s degree in film, television, and radio from the Park School of Communications. Bethmann has been supported and recognized by a number of organizations, most recently including Big Sky Pitch (2023), DOC NYC 40 under 40 (2024), and the New America Fellowship (2024).
