Movies have the power to transport us to different worlds, cultures and perspectives. Each film has its own unique story to tell, but some movies go beyond simple entertainment and shed light on important social issues. One such issue is the portrayal of Native Americans in films, which has been a heavily debated topic for decades. From classic westerns to modern day dramas, there have been a number of films that have attempted to accurately depict Native American culture and history. In this article, we will explore some of the best movies about Native Americans and how they have contributed to the representation and understanding of indigenous peoples in cinema.
1. Awakened (2016)
AWAKENED is a powerful and thought-provoking film that delves into the spiritual destiny of the original inhabitants of North America. Through the voices of Ellson Bennett, Lou Engle, and the legendary Billy Graham, this movie tells the story of how native people are rising up to claim their rightful place in shaping America’s future.
2. We Were Children (2012)
Childhood is a time of wonder, innocence, and endless possibilities. It is the phase when we are free to explore, imagine, and create without any inhibitions. We Were Children takes us on a nostalgic journey back to our younger days, as we reminisce about the joyous moments of our youth.
3. Black Spruce (2018)
Welcome to a thought-provoking and minimalist movie experience that will leave you contemplating the power of familial bonds and the complexities of human connection. In this evocative film, we follow the story of a young Cree woman who goes missing in Toronto, sending shockwaves through her close-knit family back in Northern Ontario.
4. Killers of the Flower Moon (2023)
Amidst the vast and endless plains of the American West, lies a story shrouded in greed, deception, and unimaginable violence. Once a wealthy nation from oil reserves, the Osage people were suddenly thrust into riches beyond their wildest dreams. But with newfound wealth comes unwanted attention, as white outsiders sought to exploit, swindle, and even murder these unsuspecting Native Americans. This is the premise of “Killers of the Flower Moon”, a gripping and tragic tale based on true events.
5. Wild Indian (2021)
Set against the picturesque backdrop of a Native American reservation, “Fractured Past” tells the haunting story of Michael (Michael Greyeyes), a man haunted by his past. Decades ago, Michael was forced to cover up a classmate’s murder, and since then he has tried to move on from that traumatic event. He has built a new life for himself with his wife (Kate Bosworth) and boss (Jesse Eisenberg), but the ghosts of his past still linger.
6. Woman Walks Ahead (2018)
Discover the captivating world of “Woman Walks Ahead”, a film directed by Susanna White and written by Steven Knight. Starring the talented Jessica Chastain, alongside Michael Greyeyes and Sam Rockwell, this movie will take you on a journey through emotions and imagination.
7. The New World (2005)
Pocahontas, the enigmatic figure of Native American history, has captivated audiences for centuries with her story of love and transformation. Set against the backdrop of England’s exploration of Virginia, this tale weaves together themes of discovery, cultural exchange, and personal growth.
8. Murder in Big Horn (2023)
Enter the world of Big Horn County, Montana as it grapples with a devastating epidemic of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW). The powerful docuseries, Murder in Big Horn, directed by Razelle Benally and Matthew Galkin, delves deep into the lives of tribal members and their communities to shed light on this pressing issue.
9. Lakota Nation vs. United States (2022)
The land and its people have endured unimaginable challenges – from forced relocation, to exploitation, to genocide. And yet, they persevere. With resilience and strength, they continue to thrive. This is a powerful story of survival, beautifully captured through striking visuals that will leave you in awe.
10. The New World (2005)
The vast landscape of Virginia was once a new and uncharted land, filled with endless possibilities and untold secrets waiting to be discovered. This is the story of the English exploration of this mysterious land, and of the brave men who set out to conquer it.
