Top 10 Native American Biopic Films

Description: A satirical take on the life of Jack Crabb, a white man raised by the Cheyenne, this film provides a unique perspective on Native American history and the myth of the American West.

Fact: Dustin Hoffman, who played Crabb, was nominated for a Golden Globe for his performance.

Description: This epic film follows a Union Army officer who becomes part of the Lakota tribe, providing a sympathetic portrayal of Native American life and culture.

Fact: Kevin Costner, who starred and directed, won two Academy Awards for Best Picture and Best Director for this film.

Description: This film follows a Jesuit priest's journey into the Canadian wilderness to convert the Huron and Algonquin tribes, offering a perspective on the cultural clash from a Native viewpoint.

Fact: The film was shot in Quebec, Canada, and used many Native American actors for authenticity.

Description: Based on James Fenimore Cooper's novel, it tells the story of Hawkeye, a white man raised by Mohicans, during the French and Indian War, showcasing Native American alliances and conflicts.

Fact: The film's score by Trevor Jones and Randy Edelman was nominated for an Academy Award.

Description: This film delves into the life of Geronimo, the legendary Apache leader, focusing on his last campaign against the U.S. Army. It's a poignant look at the clash between cultures and the fight for freedom.

Fact: The film was shot on location in the American Southwest, providing an authentic backdrop to Geronimo's story. Gene Hackman, who played General George Crook, was nominated for a Golden Globe for his performance.

Description: While not a traditional biopic, this film captures the essence of Native American life through the journey of two young Coeur d'Alene men, offering insights into contemporary Native identity.

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

Description: This film tells the story of a young Cherokee boy raised by his grandparents, exploring themes of identity, heritage, and the impact of the Great Depression on Native Americans.

Fact: The film was based on a book that was later revealed to be a hoax, but it still offers valuable insights into Native American life.

Description: While not strictly a biopic, it focuses on the Navajo code talkers during World War II, highlighting their crucial role in military communications and the cultural challenges they faced.

Fact: The film was criticized for not focusing enough on the Navajo characters, but it did bring attention to their contributions to the war effort.

Description: Although it's a fictionalized account, it portrays the life of Pocahontas and her interactions with the English settlers, giving a nuanced view of Native American-European relations.

Fact: Terrence Malick, the director, is known for his meticulous attention to historical detail, which is evident in the film's portrayal of the Jamestown settlement.

Description: Based on Dee Brown's book, this film explores the aftermath of the Wounded Knee Massacre and the life of Charles Eastman, a Native American doctor, highlighting the cultural and political turmoil of the time.

Fact: The film was produced by HBO and won several Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Made for Television Movie.