If you were moved by the powerful storytelling and cultural depth of 'What Was Ours' (2016), you'll love these 10 similar movies and shows. This article explores films and series that share themes of indigenous heritage, personal discovery, and the search for identity, offering a rich viewing experience for fans of the original documentary.
Dances with Wolves (1990)
Description: A sweeping epic that portrays the complexities of cultural exchange and the impact of colonization on Native American communities, with a strong emphasis on authenticity and respect.
Fact: The film won seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and was praised for its use of the Lakota language.
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The Last of the Mohicans (1992)
Description: A historical drama that explores themes of survival, cultural clash, and the enduring spirit of indigenous peoples during colonial times.
Fact: The film's iconic score and breathtaking cinematography have made it a classic in the historical epic genre.
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Smoke Signals (1998)
Description: A poignant exploration of Native American identity and family dynamics, blending humor and drama to tell a deeply personal story rooted in cultural heritage.
Fact: This was the first feature film written, directed, and co-produced by Native Americans to achieve widespread distribution.
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Barking Water (2009)
Description: A tender road movie that explores themes of love, forgiveness, and the connection to land and heritage within a Native American context.
Fact: The film was shot entirely in Oklahoma and features a predominantly Native American cast.
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The Lesser Blessed (2012)
Description: A coming-of-age story set in a remote Indigenous community, blending raw emotion with a starkly beautiful portrayal of life in the North.
Fact: The film is based on the novel by Richard Van Camp, a member of the Dogrib Nation.
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Rhymes for Young Ghouls (2013)
Description: A dark yet poetic film that addresses the trauma of residential schools and the resilience of Indigenous youth through a unique blend of realism and fantasy.
Fact: The film's director, Jeff Barnaby, is a Mi'kmaq filmmaker known for his bold storytelling style.
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Drunktown's Finest (2014)
Description: A heartfelt drama that challenges stereotypes and celebrates the diversity of contemporary Native American life through interconnected stories.
Fact: The film was crowd-funded and marked the feature debut of Navajo filmmaker Sydney Freeland.
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The Eagle Huntress (2016)
Description: This documentary shares a focus on indigenous cultures and traditions, highlighting the resilience and strength of native communities through a visually stunning narrative.
Fact: The film follows a 13-year-old Kazakh girl in Mongolia who becomes the first female eagle hunter in her family's 12-generation lineage.
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Wind River (2017)
Description: A gripping thriller that sheds light on the harsh realities faced by Native American communities, particularly the issue of missing and murdered indigenous women.
Fact: The film was inspired by real-life events and features a predominantly Native American cast in key roles.
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Rumble: The Indians Who Rocked the World (2017)
Description: This documentary delves into the often-overlooked contributions of Indigenous musicians to popular music, celebrating cultural influence and resilience.
Fact: The film features interviews with iconic musicians like Robbie Robertson and Buffy Sainte-Marie, highlighting their Indigenous roots.
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