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Articles & FAQs Must See Movies -- Native American Flicks You Might Not Have Seen Yet
We've all seen Dances with Wolves, the Hollywood story of a white man who finds life with the Indians of the 1800 far more rewarding and fulfilling than life in white society. There is nothing wrong with Dances with Wolves, in fact it was one of the first Hollywood films to portray Indian with any real depth. However, there is a difference between a Hollywood movie about Indians and an Indian or Independent movie about Indians. Below are reviews of two Independent films which really take the Indian movie to a new level. While most Hollywood films about Indians are historic both of these films deal with contemporary Indians who have contemporary problems. Because these films are independent they are often more difficult to find that Hollywood blockbuster films -- but we think these films are worth the hunt. 
Smoke Signals is a compelling film about friendship, family, and being an Indian in the 20th Century. The film follows Victor (Adam Beach) and Thomas (Evan Adams) in a journey across the country. They have grown up together, their families forever connected by a tragic event, on the Coeur d'Alene Indian Reservation, in Idaho. Victor and Thomas couldn't be more different, but they manage to find a common bond as they travel together. The story is a coming of age tale about these young men who learn a little bit about each other and themselves as they travel together. It is also a story about family and how it's sometimes necessary to love and forgive others in order to move on in your own life. Victor's father made a lot of mistakes in his life, but Victor must learn to forgive him. The film also portrays many of the common problems faced by contemporary Indians on the reservation: alcoholism, depression, poverty, and violence. In addition the film deals with two of the biggest problems facing Indians today: racism and a loss of cultural identity. Much of the humor in the film is about Indians trying to be "Indians." One of my favorite exchanges between Victor and Thomas deals with the subject of how to be a "real Indian." Victor tells Thomas, "You need to look like a warrior, like you just came from hunting buffalo." Thomas replies, "But our people were fishermen." Victor rebutts, "What do you think this is? Dances with Salmon? Do you want to look like you just came from catching a fish?" This is a very amusing exchange but also brings to light a common problem for contemporary Indians who are struggling to find out where they fit in in 20th Century America. Indians are bombarded with images of what they "should" look like but these images are often unrealistic and impossible to live up to. The film does well to poke fun at these stereotypes. Smoke Signals successfully brings together all of these themes and stories into an engaging film. The cast is stunning. Adam Beach and Evan Adams are terrific as Victor and Thomas. Gary Farmer, always incredible, delivers a haunting performance. Tantoo Cardinal and Irene Bedard also bring an added depth and personality to their roles. Smoke Signals is the first well-known Indian film to be written (Sherman Alexie) and directed (Chris Eyre) by Indians. If you are looking for a thought provoking and engaging film about contemporary Indians facing real world problems that will make you laugh and cry, then look no further. Smoke Signals is the film for you. Christina
This brilliantly poignant film captures the emotional turmoil of four teenagers in the aftermath of a senseless tragedy. Along the way, they laugh, they cry, and dispel the myth that life is fair. Silas, superbly played by Ryan Black, portrays a strong, no-nonsense young man struggling to overcome the stereotypical life of an adult male on the Kidabanessee Reservation. As the camera focuses on Silas for a close-up, the play of emotions across his face gives one a deeper insight into the great potential lying within. Silas' hilarious sidekick Frank, played by Adam Beach, provides the light laughter that will keep you from crying through this great film. Frank is a lover and a fighter, as well as the class clown. Ironically, however, it is Frank who asks the crucial question, "Do you think women are thinking?" Lisa LaCroix, Michael Grey Eyes, Kevin Hicks, Jennifer Podemski and Sandrine Holt do a fantastic job filling out the wonderful cast of this Canadian film. All of the elements of a "reservation" and "life on the rez" are in place: the poorly constructed homes, no maintenance, no money, alcoholism, joblessness, limited opportunity, and discrimination, just to name a few. All of the elements of a jaded justice system that pretends to be politically correct are also alive and well. But, the innocence of youth is cast aside and life on the rez must go on. And, it does go on. A great film that will make you laugh at the unbridled enthusiasm of youth, and will make you cry with the tragedies of growing up, this is a must see! Wado! See you at the movies!
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