Western Films Featuring Native American Tribes

Description: Through the eyes of Jack Crabb, a 121-year-old man, we see the history of the American West, including his time living with the Cheyenne, providing a satirical yet poignant view of Native American life.

Fact: Dustin Hoffman's performance as Jack Crabb was critically acclaimed, and the film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay.

Description: This epic tale follows Lieutenant John J. Dunbar, who befriends a Sioux tribe and learns their way of life, offering an intimate look at Native American culture from an outsider's perspective.

Fact: Kevin Costner not only starred in but also directed and co-produced this film, which won seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

Description: Set during the French and Indian War, this film explores the bond between a white scout and the last surviving members of the Mohican tribe, showcasing the cultural clash and survival in the wilderness.

Fact: The film's score by Trevor Jones and Randy Edelman was so popular that it became one of the best-selling soundtracks of all time.

Description: This film chronicles the life of Apache leader Geronimo, focusing on his resistance against the U.S. government and his eventual surrender, offering a nuanced portrayal of Native American resistance.

Fact: The film was shot on location in the American Southwest, providing an authentic backdrop to the story.

Description: A road trip movie that delves into the lives of two young Coeur d'Alene Indian men, exploring themes of friendship, identity, and the legacy of Native American history.

Fact: This was the first feature film to be written, directed, and co-produced by Native Americans.

Description: While not exclusively about Native American tribes, this film highlights the crucial role of Navajo code talkers during World War II, showcasing their contribution to the war effort.

Fact: The film was inspired by real events, although it takes some liberties with historical accuracy for dramatic purposes.

Description: Terrence Malick's poetic take on the story of Pocahontas, focusing on her relationship with John Smith and the cultural collision between the Powhatan tribe and English settlers.

Fact: The film was shot in Virginia, where the historical events took place, adding authenticity to the setting.

Description: Based on Dee Brown's book, this HBO film tells the story of the Sioux nation's struggle against the encroachment of white settlers, culminating in the Wounded Knee Massacre.

Fact: The film won an Emmy for Outstanding Made for Television Movie.

Description: While not solely about Native American tribes, the film features significant interactions between Hugh Glass and the Arikara tribe, highlighting survival, revenge, and the harsh realities of frontier life.

Fact: Leonardo DiCaprio's performance earned him his first Academy Award for Best Actor, and the film was shot in harsh conditions to capture the authenticity of the story.

Description: A journey of redemption and understanding, where a U.S. Army Captain escorts a Cheyenne chief and his family back to their tribal lands, exploring themes of reconciliation and cultural understanding.

Fact: Christian Bale underwent rigorous physical training to portray the hardened Captain Joseph J. Blocker.