Western Films Celebrating Native American Stories

Description: While not exclusively about Native Americans, this John Ford classic features significant interaction with Comanche characters, exploring themes of racism and revenge.

Fact: The film was controversial for its portrayal of Native Americans, but it's now recognized for its complex characters and themes.

Description: A satirical take on the Western genre, this film follows Jack Crabb, a white man raised by the Cheyenne, as he recounts his life among both cultures. It's both humorous and insightful.

Fact: Dustin Hoffman underwent extensive makeup sessions to portray an old man, and the film was one of the first to portray Native Americans in a sympathetic light.

Description: This film follows Lieutenant John Dunbar as he befriends a tribe of Lakota Sioux, learning their ways and becoming an honorary member. It's a poignant tale of cultural understanding and personal transformation.

Fact: Kevin Costner, who also directed, won the Best Director Oscar for this film. The film was shot in South Dakota, with many scenes filmed on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation.

Description: Set during the French and Indian War, this film captures the struggle of the Mohican tribe through the eyes of Hawkeye, who fights alongside them. It's a thrilling adventure with a deep emotional core.

Fact: The film's score by Trevor Jones and Randy Edelman became iconic, especially the theme "Promontory." Daniel Day-Lewis learned to speak Mohican for authenticity.

Description: This film portrays the life of the Apache leader Geronimo, focusing on his final campaign against the U.S. Army. It's a respectful depiction of his resistance and the cultural clash.

Fact: Wes Studi, who played Geronimo, is of Cherokee descent and has become a prominent figure in films about Native Americans.

Description: A road trip movie that delves into the lives of two young Coeur d'Alene Indian men, exploring themes of identity, friendship, and reconciliation. It's a modern take on Native American stories.

Fact: This was the first feature film written, directed, and co-produced by Native Americans. It was adapted from Sherman Alexie's short story collection "The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven."

Description: This WWII film focuses on Navajo code talkers, showcasing their crucial role in the Pacific theater and the cultural clash they experienced.

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

Description: Terrence Malick's epic tells the story of Pocahontas and John Smith, offering a poetic and visually stunning look at the early encounters between Native Americans and settlers.

Fact: The film was shot in Virginia, where the historical events took place, and used a mix of English and Algonquian languages.

Description: Based on Dee Brown's book, this film explores the aftermath of the Battle of Little Bighorn and the Wounded Knee Massacre, focusing on the lives of Charles Eastman and Sitting Bull.

Fact: The film was nominated for 17 Emmy Awards, winning one for Outstanding Made for Television Movie.

Description: This film follows a U.S. Cavalry officer escorting a dying Cheyenne war chief back to his tribal lands, exploring themes of redemption, prejudice, and the harsh realities of the frontier.

Fact: Christian Bale learned to speak Cheyenne for his role, and the film was praised for its nuanced portrayal of Native American characters.