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The Split Horn: Life of a Hmong Shaman in America

An intimate account of a Hmong shaman struggling to maintain his ancient traditions in the United States while his sons and daughters succumb to the allure of American lifestyles.

Series

Independent Lens, True Stories

Premiere Date

October 1, 2001

Length

60 minutes

Funding Type

Co-Production

The sweeping story of a Hmong shaman and his family living in Appleton, Wisconsin, the split horn documents the 17-year journey of Paja Thao and his family. From the mountains of Laos to the heartland of America, this documentary shows a shaman's struggles to maintain his ancient traditions as his children embrace American culture.